New Jersey firearm regulation legal challenges

Legal challenges regarding firearm and self-defense regulations in New Jersey have escalated through the federal court system.

In September 2026, a federal lawsuit was filed by the Association of New Jersey Rifle & Pistol Clubs, Knife Rights, and several residents. The plaintiffs are challenging New Jersey Statute 2C:39-5(d), arguing that restrictions on non-firearm items—including knives, stun guns, and bear spray—are unconstitutional under the Second Amendment. The suit claims the law prevents the use of less-lethal tools and may criminalize common household objects.

By October 2026, the legal focus expanded to include high-capacity magazine restrictions. Following a Third Circuit Court of Appeals ruling in Cheeseman v. New Jersey that declared the state’s ban on magazines holding more than ten rounds unconstitutional, the New Jersey Attorney General petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court to review the decision. The state argues that the appellate court did not sufficiently consider the ‘unprecedented societal concern’ posed by modern mass shootings. This petition seeks to resolve a ‘circuit split’ with the Ninth Circuit, which has upheld similar bans in California.