Montgomery County, Maryland – A federal district court ruled on Thursday that the Justice Department’s lawsuit contesting the county’s recent gun‑restriction ordinance is dismissed with prejudice, meaning the case cannot be refiled. The decision affirms the county’s authority to establish safety zones around thousands of public assembly locations.
Law Details and Local Impact
The ordinance bars firearms within 100 yards of designated places of public assembly, including parks, churches, schools, libraries, hospitals and other gathering sites. Exceptions permit individuals to travel on public highways that pass through the restricted perimeter, ensuring that everyday commuting remains unimpeded.
County officials say the law was carefully revised after an April Maryland Supreme Court ruling, preserving strong gun‑safety measures while respecting lawful gun owners’ rights. Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich praised the ruling, calling it “an important affirmation of the County’s responsibility to protect public safety, uphold the law, and exercise its authority to safeguard the communities we serve.”
Justice Department’s Arguments
The Justice Department argued that the ordinance was overly broad, claiming a licensed gun owner could not realistically navigate the county without entering a prohibited zone. The department also asserted that the restrictions would apply even to individuals holding valid carry permits and with property owners’ consent.
However, the court found the DOJ’s claims insufficient to overturn a democratically enacted local measure designed to protect neighborhoods, places of worship, and schools from gun violence.
County’s Rationale
Executive Elrich explained that the legislation aims to strengthen and preserve protections around locations where “neighbors live, learn, worship and gather.” He emphasized that the county’s actions are grounded in law and driven by an obligation to protect residents, stating, “We should not have to choose between respecting constitutional rights and pursuing thoughtful, lawful measures to prevent gun violence.”
The county’s position reflects a broader commitment to public safety that aligns with traditional family values and the constitutional right to life and security.
Community Response
Local residents and faith‑based groups have expressed support for the ordinance, citing concerns about safety in schools and churches. While some gun‑rights advocates continue to challenge the law, the dismissal of the federal lawsuit removes a major legal obstacle, allowing Montgomery County to enforce the restrictions moving forward.
Fox 5 DC reached out to the Justice Department for comment but did not receive a response at the time of publication.
Original reporting: Arlington County | FOX 5 DC — read the source article.
