NEW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James has joined forces with 17 other attorneys general in an amicus brief supporting Massachusetts' ban on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines. This coalition, representing a broad spectrum of states, is urging the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit to uphold the state's longstanding restrictions.
The brief argues that the Second Amendment does not protect assault weapons as they are not essential for self-defense. The attorneys general assert that states have the right to regulate weapons that pose significant risks to public safety. The coalition emphasizes the historical precedent for states to limit access to particularly dangerous weaponry.
Attorney General James highlighted the destructive nature of assault rifles and large capacity magazines, often associated with mass casualties, and stated that these are typically battlefield weapons not suitable for civilian use. She expressed pride in standing with her counterparts to ensure the safety of communities and homes.
The Massachusetts law in question prohibits the sale and possession of assault weapons and magazines capable of holding more than ten rounds of ammunition. The legal action taken by the coalition aims to preserve this law and maintain states' authority to enact gun safety legislation.
Attorney General James has a track record of addressing gun violence in New York, including actions against illegal gun traffickers and retailers selling unauthorized firearms and components. Her efforts have resulted in multiple takedowns of gun and narcotics trafficking operations throughout the state.
The amicus brief is part of a broader initiative by attorneys general from California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawai'i, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, and the District of Columbia. This collective action is rooted in the shared goal of upholding measures that protect citizens from gun-related violence.
The information for this article is based on a press release statement from the Office of the New York State Attorney General.
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