The Washington Supreme Court has upheld the state’s 2022 ban on the sale of ammunition magazines holding more than ten rounds, concluding that such magazines are not considered “arms” under the law. The court’s 7-2 decision counters arguments from Gator’s Custom Guns, which claimed the ban violated both state and federal constitutional rights, emphasizing that restricting magazine capacity still allows individuals to exercise their right to bear arms.
This ruling comes amid the evolving landscape of gun regulations, particularly following a U.S. Supreme Court decision that requires a historical context for assessing the constitutionality of firearms laws. Legal discussions highlighted the challenge of aligning modern regulations with historical precedents, but the state defended its law by referencing past bans on dangerous weapons, such as Bowie knives. As the case returns to lower courts for further deliberation, Washington continues to navigate its approach to gun control amidst nationwide debates.
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