Third Circuit Court Rules New Jersey Assault Weapons Ban Unconstitutional

On July 17, 2026, the U.S. 3rd Circuit Court of Appeals issued an en banc decision (10‑5) that New Jersey's ban on semi‑automatic rifles, including AR‑15‑type weapons, and on magazines holding more than ten rounds violates the Second Amendment. The court applied the Supreme Court’s Bruen historical‑tradition test, concluding that such firearms are in common lawful use for self‑defense, hunting and target shooting, and that large‑capacity magazines are also protected firearms.

New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport called the ruling “as unfortunate as it is legally incorrect,” noting the state will consider its options, including an appeal. The National Rifle Association called the decision a “historic victory” for gun owners. The ruling arrives as the U.S. Supreme Court has agreed to review similar challenges to assault‑weapon bans in Illinois and Connecticut, suggesting the New Jersey case could influence future national policy.

The decision marks the first time a federal appellate court has struck down a state assault‑weapons ban on constitutional grounds and could prompt other states to reassess similar restrictions.