Maryland's Handgun Qualification Law Struck Down by Federal Appeals Court

The 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has struck down Maryland's gun license law, ruling that the state cannot enforce a requirement for individuals to obtain a license before purchasing a handgun. The court found that the law violated the Second Amendment and failed to meet the burden of showing historical evidence justifying the restriction. Gun rights advocates celebrated the ruling as a victory for the rights of Marylanders, while gun control advocates criticized it as dangerous and misguided. Maryland Governor Wes Moore expressed disappointment and vowed to continue fighting for the law. The state may seek further review in the 4th Circuit or appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court.