TRENTON, NJ— New Jersey Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin issued a statement as oral arguments began at the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit regarding ANJRPC v. Platkin. The Attorney General emphasized the impact of New Jersey’s gun safety laws, stating that they led to record low numbers of shootings in the state over the last two years.
Platkin said, “This significant achievement is under threat by the gun lobby seeking to bolster their profits at the cost of the lives of New Jerseyans.” He noted the commitment of the Murphy Administration to saving lives in New Jersey through various initiatives, including the establishment of the Statewide Affirmative Firearms Enforcement Office.
Today’s hearing will involve defending longstanding restrictions on assault weapons and large capacity magazines, laws that have been in place for 35 years. These laws continue to be positioned as crucial for protecting residents.
According to Platkin, these weapons are poorly suited for civilian self-defense and are instead designed for military combat. He stated that they are disproportionately used in mass shootings nationwide, referencing events such as the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting and the Las Vegas mass shooting.
All Circuits that have reviewed Second Amendment challenges to similar bans post-Bruen have rejected those challenges. Solicitor General Jeremy Feigenbaum is set to represent the state during today’s arguments before the Third Circuit.
The implications of the ruling could influence gun control measures across the United States as New Jersey maintains its stance on gun safety laws.