On August 2, 2024, U.S. District Judge Gerald L. Russell ruled that numerous Maryland gun bans were unconstitutional in a case brought by the Firearms Policy Coalition, the Second Amendment Foundation, Maryland Shall Issue, Inc., and several private citizens. The lawsuit, Novotny v. Moore, sought to challenge the state’s restrictive concealed carry laws, which had been found to violate constitutional rights.
Judge Russell sided with the plaintiffs in this case and granted Summary Judgment against Maryland’s ban on concealed carry on private property without the property owner’s consent. He also declared unconstitutional the bans on “carrying near public demonstrations or in locations selling alcohol for on-site consumption.
Furthermore, Judge Russell noted that these three laws would be permanently enjoined, a victory for the Firearms Policy Coalition and its supporters. In response to the ruling, Second Amendment Foundation executive director Adam Kraut expressed satisfaction with the court’s decision, stating, “We are pleased that the Court found Maryland’s draconian ‘anti-carry’ rule to be unconstitutional.” He added that the organization would examine the court’s opinion and weigh its options for appeal, with the goal of continuing to challenge other provisions they believe are unconstitutional.
This ruling marks a significant victory for Second Amendment advocates in Maryland, as it reinforces the importance of preserving citizens’ rights to bear arms under the U.S. Constitution. The decision is expected to have implications beyond Maryland, as similar cases challenging gun control measures may be influenced by this ruling. As more states face legal challenges to their restrictive firearms laws, it remains crucial for courts to uphold constitutional rights and ensure that citizens can exercise their Second Amendment rights responsibly and effectively.