I’ll get to the two directions Washington went yesterday on guns in a bit. Let’s start with the waiting game at the Supreme Court.
The decision could come any day now. Maybe this morning. The fate of Roe v. Wade. The landmark decision that legalized abortion nationwide could be struck down.
All indications are that it will happen. Legal analysts say that leaked draft opinion in May shows where the court will go. If Roe v. Wade is overturned abortion access will be left up to the states.
The court did something else yesterday. That’s where the two directions in Washington come in. The Supreme Court ruled against a New York law that heavily restricted concealed carry permits on guns.
It was a 6-3 decision. Justice Clarence Thomas wrote the majority opinion: “It prevents law abiding citizens with ordinary self-defense needs from exercising their right to keep and bear arms.” The court is essentially saying New York went too far in its concealed carry law.
President Biden said he was disappointed in the Supreme Court’s decision.
While the decision may affect only a handful of states, it could lead to other challenges of gun laws. George Washington University law professor Jonathan Turley tells Fox News, “New York has produced one of the most historic losses for gun control in the history of this country.”
The other direction on guns came from the U.S. Senate. Just hours after the Supreme Court handed down its decision, the Senate passed a new gun bill.
Fifteen Republican Senators joined Democrats in supporting it. The measure expands school safety and mental health funding. It enhances background checks for young gun buyers and adds new protection for victims of relationship abuse.
Democratic Senator Chuck Schumer said, “It’s a long overdue step in the right direction.” Republican Senator Ted Cruz views it this way: “The Democrat bill is not focused on criminals.”
The bill goes to the house later today. It’s expected to pass. Then, it goes to President Biden’s desk for his signature.
Two directions on guns in Washington. It looks like one direction on abortion. For that, we wait.