TRENTON, NJ — Senator John McKeon has expressed strong disapproval following the New Jersey District Court’s decision to overturn the state’s ban on Colt AR-15 rifles.
The court’s ruling has allowed the sale and use of what McKeon describes as a “weapon of war” in New Jersey.
Senator McKeon criticized the decision, stating, “The district court’s decision to permit the sale and use of the Colt AR-15 in New Jersey demonstrates a profound disregard for the devastating impact this weapon of war has on civil society.”
He emphasized that the AR-15 is designed to inflict mass casualties and is not suitable for self-defense or sporting purposes.
The decision, according to McKeon, is based on a misinterpretation of the Supreme Court’s 2022 Bruen decision, which he argues has been extended to include weapons like the AR-15 under the protections of the 2nd Amendment. McKeon highlighted the modern capabilities of such weapons, including the potential for modifications that significantly increase their lethality, which he believes were not considered when the 2nd Amendment was adopted.
Senator McKeon called the ruling a major blow to public safety but reassured that New Jersey still maintains strong gun regulations.
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He urged the Office of the Attorney General to appeal the decision swiftly, emphasizing the need to protect community well-being and uphold strict gun control measures.