Supreme Court to Hear D.C. Handgun Case
Second Amendment Case Considers Constitutionality of 1976 Ban
Staff Writer Joshua St. Louis

For the first time in nearly 70 years, the United States Supreme Court will hear a case involving the Second Amendment, concerning the rights of Americans to “bear arms.” This case will determine if the District of Columbia handgun ban is constitutional or not.
The Second Amendment states, “A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.” The Second Amendment’s broad language has often lead to much debate among lawmakers.

The 1976 ban on residents from keeping handguns for private use was passed in order to reduce violence in the city. The Supreme Court has agreed to hear the case sometime next year, with a decision likely to be reached a few months before the 2008 Presidential elections.

Gun control advocates argue that the Second Amendment only allows citizens the right to bear arms when serving in a state-sponsored militia, such as the National Guard. They argue that this right does not extend to personal use. They also cite instances such as the recent Virginia Tech Shooting, arguing that harsher gun control laws could have prevented that tragedy.

The National Rifle Association, as well as former Attorney General John Ashcroft, disagree. On numerous occasions, both have called D.C.’s ban unconstitutional, saying that “Americans have the right to defend themselves.”

The George Mason College Republicans have also expressed their opinion on the matter.

 “The Second Amendment is very clear in its wording that every individual has the right ‘to keep and bear Arms,’” Chairwoman Monica Block said. “I hope that the Supreme Court will render a sound and supportive decision in concurrence with that the founders intended and return this right to D.C. Residents.”

The George Mason College Democrats did not respond to questions concerning the issue before deadline.