Third Circuit Rules New Jersey Assault Firearms Ban Unconstitutional, Timing Raises Questions
On July 17, 2026, the en banc Third Circuit ruled in Association of New Jersey Rifle and Pistol Clubs v. Attorney General of New Jersey that New Jersey's ban on 'assault firearms' and large-capacity magazines violates the Second Amendment. The majority opinion was written by Biden appointee Judge Arianna Freeman. Judge Tamika Montgomery-Reeves, also a Biden appointee, concurred but expressed reservations about the timing, noting the Supreme Court had granted certiorari on June 30, 2026, in similar cases from Illinois and Connecticut (Viramontes). She stated she saw 'little reason to decide this case now' but joined the majority. The article analyzes the chronology: the case was argued en banc in October 2025, and the court likely expected the Supreme Court to deny cert after 21 relists. The surprise grant created a dilemma. The author notes no party requested a hold, and praises Judge Paul Matey's scholarly concurrence.
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