A federal appellate court ruled that New Jersey’s ban on AR-15–style rifles and its prohibition on magazines holding more than 10 rounds violate the Second Amendment, marking the first time a federal appeals court has overturned a state’s assault weapons ban on constitutional grounds.

The decision follows the Bruen framework from the Supreme Court and signals a broader national reckoning on gun rules, as the Court plans to hear challenges to similar bans in Illinois and Connecticut.

Legal observers described the ruling as surprising given prior appellate decisions upholding assault weapon bans, and they say it could foreshadow how the Supreme Court might view such restrictions.

The coverage relies on standard Associated Press reporting without additional personal data or controversial content.

Statements from key figures included praise from the NRA’s John Commerford, condemnation from Governor Mikie Sherrill, and support for enforcing other firearm laws from New Jersey’s Attorney General.

State officials, including the AG, say they will appeal, arguing the restrictions are necessary to prevent mass shootings and protect public safety.

The case was heard en banc on the full court, with Judge Emil Bove drawing attention for his alignment with Trump appointees and related criticism from state officials.

The report places the decision within the broader media and political debate surrounding gun regulation, noting related legal debates and the figures involved in the case.

New Jersey’s Attorney General, Jennifer Davenport, criticized the ruling as legally incorrect and said the state will consider options, including appealing to the Supreme Court.

The article is authored by Josh Kelley, with reporting from Phoenix.

The story is developing, with readers urged to check back for updates.

There were no immediate details on statewide changes or enforcement actions following the ruling.