The Second Amendment is the bedrock of our right to protect life and liberty, and the U.S. Supreme Court plays a pivotal role in shaping its future. In 2025, the Court made headlines by declining to hear two significant gun rights cases, leaving state restrictions in place but hinting at future battles. Here’s what you need to know as a proud gun owner.
Recent Supreme Court Actions
In June 2025, the Supreme Court opted not to review Snope v. Brown, a challenge to Maryland’s 2013 ban on semiautomatic rifles like the AR-15 and AK-47, enacted after the Sandy Hook tragedy. The 4th Circuit Court upheld the ban, arguing these “military-style” weapons aren’t protected by the Second Amendment. However, dissenting judges and Supreme Court Justices Alito, Gorsuch, and Thomas disagreed, noting the AR-15’s popularity (20% of U.S. firearm sales) and suggesting it deserves constitutional protection. Similarly, in Ocean State Tactical v. Rhode Island, the Court declined to hear a challenge to Rhode Island’s 2022 ban on magazines holding over 10 rounds. The 1st Circuit upheld this law, but dissenters like Justice Thomas signaled openness to revisiting such restrictions.
The DOJ’s Pro-Gun Push
The Department of Justice, under the current administration, is taking a bold stand for gun rights. In 2025, it urged the Supreme Court to strike down state laws in Hawaii, California, New York, Maryland, and New Jersey that restrict carrying handguns on private property without consent. It also declined to appeal a 5th Circuit ruling that the federal age limit of 21 for handgun purchases is unconstitutional, a move that has energized Second Amendment supporters. Additionally, the DOJ is challenging Illinois’ assault weapons ban and supporting a Missouri law that limits state enforcement of federal gun regulations. These actions reflect a commitment to expanding your rights as a gun owner.
What This Means for You
While the Supreme Court’s decision to sidestep these cases preserves state bans for now, the interest from justices and the DOJ’s aggressive stance suggest that gun rights remain a dynamic legal battleground. If the Court takes up similar cases in the next term or two, we could see landmark rulings that further affirm your constitutional protections. Stay informed and support organizations fighting for the Second Amendment to ensure your voice is heard.
Resources: SCOTUSblog, USA Today