New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has been a vocal advocate for gun control since his inauguration in 2018. Citing public safety concerns and gun violence statistics, Murphy has pursued a series of legislative measures aimed at tightening New Jersey’s already-strict gun laws. But for Second Amendment advocates and many in the state who oppose these measures, Murphy’s actions appear to be more than just a safety initiative—they see it as an ideological endeavor aimed at reducing, if not eliminating, the feasibility of gun ownership in the Garden State.
Murphy’s Legislative Moves
One of Governor Murphy’s first actions upon taking office was signing six anti-gun bills into law, extending the prohibitions on magazine capacities and strengthening background checks. He also made it mandatory to report lost or stolen firearms, raised the minimum age for buying firearms, and made it more difficult to obtain a permit to carry a handgun.
Another notable piece of legislation is the “red flag” law, which allows authorities to confiscate firearms from individuals deemed by a court to be a threat to themselves or others. While the intention may be to prevent tragedies before they happen, critics argue that this infringes upon due process rights and is a slippery slope to further restrictions.
Beyond New Jersey Borders
Governor Murphy hasn’t limited his gun control advocacy to the borders of New Jersey. He’s taken a regional approach, working with neighboring states like New York, Connecticut, and Pennsylvania to share information and collaborate on initiatives to combat gun violence. Murphy argues that these measures are necessary because guns used in crimes in New Jersey often come from other states.
Speculations About Future Actions
Given Murphy’s track record and the broad legislative moves he’s made so far, there’s reason to speculate that he might not be done. With each new law, it becomes increasingly difficult to own a gun in New Jersey, leading some to wonder if Murphy’s endgame is to make gun ownership so convoluted and costly that it becomes virtually impossible for the average citizen.
While no concrete proposals have been released, there are murmurs that further restrictions, such as mandatory insurance for gun owners or even more rigorous permit processes, could be on the horizon. These potential future actions could very well be a part of a broader progressive ideological agenda, aiming for a society with minimal, if any, firearms.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy’s focus on gun control is undeniable, and it seems to be a fundamental part of his tenure. While supporters praise his actions as necessary steps for public safety, critics argue that he is infringing on Second Amendment rights and steering the state toward an almost impossible landscape for gun ownership.
Regardless of where you stand on the issue, one thing is clear: Murphy’s crackdown on gun ownership in New Jersey is far from over.