DOJ Challenges Montgomery County's Amended Gun Restrictions as Unconstitutional
The U.S. Department of Justice has filed a lawsuit against Montgomery County, Maryland, challenging the county's amended gun restrictions. The lawsuit, filed in the federal district court, argues that the restrictions, which include limits on carrying firearms within 100 yards of parks, places of worship, and schools, are 'breathtaking in scope' and likely unconstitutional. These restrictions have been in place for years but were unenforceable due to a separate state court challenge. The County Council recently amended the law to comply with a Maryland Supreme Court opinion, adding a narrow exemption for state wear-and-carry permit holders. The DOJ is seeking a preliminary injunction to halt the enforcement of the amended law, arguing that the Second Amendment does not allow local governments to ban law-abiding citizens from carrying firearms in public places.