Look, I can hardly keep up with all the lawsuits anymore, and honestly? That's a good problem to have. New Jersey just got hit with another Second Amendment case, and this one proves what we've been saying all along: the antis won't stop at guns.
The Association of New Jersey Rifle & Pistol Clubs and Knife Rights filed a federal lawsuit on September 21st targeting New Jersey's absurd "other weapons" law. Here's the deal: after Bruen forced NJ to recognize handgun carry rights, the state is still prosecuting people for carrying batons, defensive knives, even pepper spray — because apparently, if you dare to anticipate needing to defend yourself, you're a criminal.
The case highlights a 1990 New Jersey Supreme Court decision where a woman was PUNISHED for carrying a carpet cutter because she feared her abusive ex-boyfriend would attack her. He did attack her, she used the cutter to stop him, and the state still charged her for having the audacity to prepare for a threat she knew was coming. That's New Jersey logic for you.
The plaintiffs — including three people who already have handgun carry permits — say they could get arrested for carrying LESS lethal alternatives like a collapsible baton. One woman says she wants to carry pepper spray but is limited to a tiny 0.75-ounce container. Meanwhile, criminals don't exactly check the size restrictions.
The constitutional argument is solid: the Second Amendment says "Arms," not "firearms." Knives, stun guns, Tasers, and defensive sprays are bearable arms too, and post-Bruen, states can't just pick and choose which ones they'll tolerate.
"New Jersey treats the means of self-defense as the crime itself," said ANJRPC President Kathy Chatterton. Exactly right. This lawsuit could open the door for carry rights beyond just guns — and that's something every freedom-loving citizen should get behind.