The United States Supreme Court has declined to take up a challenge to New York State’s 2022 firearm regulations, effectively allowing the laws to remain in place. The rules include tightened requirements for obtaining concealed-carry permits and bans on bringing firearms into locations such as public transportation, parks, and densely populated areas.
Without issuing any explanation, the justices dismissed the appeal brought by six New Yorkers who argued that the laws violate the Second Amendment and contradict recent Supreme Court decisions that expanded protections for gun ownership.
Under the contested law, those applying for concealed-carry licenses must demonstrate they possess “good moral character” and pose no threat to themselves or others. Applicants are required to submit character references, disclose cohabitants, complete 18 hours of in-person training, and participate in a face-to-face interview.
In addition, the legislation designates 20 types of “sensitive locations” where guns are not allowed. These include establishments that serve alcohol, medical centers, polling stations, and places where political demonstrations occur.
The new rules were passed shortly after the Supreme Court struck down New York’s previous concealed-carry licensing framework in 2022. That decision established a higher legal bar for justifying gun regulations. Following the ruling, the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the majority of New York’s newly enacted restrictions.
The plaintiffs, led by Ivan Antonyuk, contended that the 2nd Circuit failed to adhere properly to the Supreme Court’s 2022 directive, which requires defenders of gun control laws to demonstrate a historical precedent for such measures. They insisted that the correct standard should be based on laws that were in place in 1791, the year the Constitution was ratified.
They also challenged the “good moral character” provision, arguing it grants licensing authorities excessive power to subjectively determine who can or cannot carry a firearm.
This is now the third time the Supreme Court has declined to review the case, leaving the lower court rulings—and New York’s stricter gun laws—intact.
{Matzav.com}