On June 23, 2022, the United States Supreme Court struck down a New York law that restricted carrying handguns in public. (New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen, 597 U.S. __ (2022).)
The New York law required that anyone seeking a license to carry a concealed handgun show "proper cause" for the license, which required more than just a general need for self-protection. Instead, applicants had to demonstrate a "special need" for self-defense, such as continuous threats to their lives or safety.
In its decision, New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen, the Supreme Court held that this kind of law violates the Second Amendment because the right to bear arms includes the right of ordinary law-abiding citizens to carry firearms in public for self-defense.
The ruling has significant implications for the Second Amendment and gun laws throughout the country.
New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen, 597 U.S.__ (2022).
Decided: June 23, 2022