(PatriotWise.com) — A California federal judge last Wednesday blocked a state law that would have prohibited carrying firearms in most public places, ruling that the law violated the Second Amendment by depriving citizens of their right to defend themselves and their loved ones, the Associated Press reported.
The law, signed by California’s Democrat Governor Gavin Newsom in September, prohibited the carrying of concealed firearms in 26 public places like playgrounds, parks, churches, zoos, and banks, regardless of whether an individual had a permit to carry a concealed weapon.
The law exempted privately owned businesses that placed signs notifying the public that concealed firearms were permitted on the premises.
It was to take effect on January 1, 2024.
The law was challenged by the California Rifle and Pistol Association, which sued to prevent the law from taking effect.
In his December 20 decision, US District Judge Cormac Carney granted an injunction while the association’s challenge made its way through the courts.
In granting a preliminary injunction, Judge Carney described the law as “repugnant to the Second Amendment” and said it openly defied the Supreme Court ruling in New York State Rifle and Pistol Association vs. Bruen.
Judge Carney wrote that it is likely the challenge will succeed in proving the law is unconstitutional.
Association President Chuck Michel said in a statement after last Wednesday’s ruling that while California’s “progressive politicians” tried “every creative ploy” to get around the Supreme Court’s Bruen decision, Judge Carney “saw through the State’s gambit.”
Michel said concealed carry permit holders would not “be able to drive across town” without driving through prohibited areas and “breaking the law.” He said Judge Carney’s decision would make citizens safer since criminals are deterred if citizens can defend themselves.
California Attorney General Rob Bonta said the state would appeal, claiming that communities would be endangered if the injunction remains in place because guns would be permitted in places “where families and children gather.”
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