Supreme Court Rulings and Their Impact on Gun Laws
Rich Neel delves into the pivotal Supreme Court cases that have shaped the interpretation of the Second Amendment, highlighting key rulings from the 19th century to the present day. Each case reflects the evolving legal and social landscape surrounding gun rights in America.
He begins with U.S. v. Cruikshank (1876), a case that exposed the limitations of federal intervention in state matters, inadvertently fueling racial violence during Reconstruction. From there, Neel traces the progression through landmark cases like U.S. v. Miller (1939), which upheld restrictions on certain firearms like machine guns and short-barreled shotguns.
Fast-forwarding to modern history, he covers District of Columbia v. Heller (2008), a monumental decision affirming the individual’s right to own firearms unconnected to militia service. This case set a precedent for personal firearm ownership as a constitutional right. Neel also touches on New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen (2022), which further expanded gun rights, establishing that individuals have a constitutional right to carry firearms outside the home.
He discusses recent cases, including Garland v. Cargill (2024), which addressed bump stock regulations, and United States v. Rahimi (2024), which upheld red flag laws to protect against gun violence in cases of credible threats. These rulings showcase the dynamic tension between preserving constitutional rights and addressing public safety concerns.
Neel underscores the importance of these rulings in defining the balance between individual freedoms and societal regulations, offering members of American Egress an informed perspective on how legal interpretations of the Second Amendment continue to shape the nation.