The Supreme Court declined to hear a challenge to Maryland’s strict gun licensing law, which requires safety training, fingerprints, and background checks.

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WASHINGTON, D.C. (1-minute read) — The U.S. Supreme Court has declined to hear a case challenging Maryland’s stringent handgun licensing law, effectively allowing the regulation to remain in force. This law, introduced after the 2012 Sandy Hook shooting, requires applicants to complete safety training, provide fingerprints, and pass a background check before purchasing a handgun.

Opponents of the law argued it infringes on Second Amendment rights by creating undue barriers to gun ownership. Their case cited a 2022 Supreme Court ruling that struck down similar regulations and emphasized that firearm laws should have historical precedents to justify their restrictions. Despite this, the full 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upheld Maryland’s law, finding it consistent with historic firearm regulations.

Supporters of the legislation, including state officials, view it as a critical safety measure aimed at reducing gun violence and ensuring responsible firearm ownership. The Supreme Court’s decision not to take up the case leaves the appeals court’s ruling intact, signaling continued support for stricter firearm regulations in some jurisdictions.

Safety Tip: Always stay informed about your state’s firearm laws and licensing requirements.