Federal Appeals Court partially strikes down New York gun law

The 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals delivered a significant ruling on Friday, striking down key parts of a New York gun control law while upholding others. This decision comes in the wake of the Supreme Court’s expansion of Second Amendment rights last year.

Key Provisions Invalidated

The appeals court invalidated several provisions of the law. Notably, it struck down the requirement for concealed carry permit applicants to disclose their social media accounts. This decision is seen as a pushback against what some argue is an infringement on privacy and freedom of speech.

Additionally, the court overturned a provision that by default bans gun possession on private property. It also blocked enforcement of a gun possession ban at places of worship for a specific group of plaintiffs.

Some Provisions Upheld

While parts of the law were struck down, the court upheld other aspects previously deemed unconstitutional by lower courts. This includes the requirement for concealed carry permit applicants to demonstrate “good moral character,” a decision welcomed by New York Attorney General Letitia James.

The court’s ruling also maintains gun possession bans at many locations classified as “sensitive places,” such as behavioral health centers, public parks, zoos, theaters, conference centers, and places licensed for on-premise alcohol consumption.

Backdrop of the Ruling

The ruling follows last year’s Supreme Court decision in NYSRPA v. Bruen, which marked a significant expansion of Second Amendment rights. In response, New York Democrats passed the Concealed Carry Improvement Act (CCIA), imposing new restrictions and requirements for gun permits.

The law, which also bans firearms in…