Federal judge upholds Montgomery County gun restrictions near public places

A federal judge has dismissed a Department of Justice lawsuit challenging Montgomery County's law that bans firearms within 100 yards of certain public locations, according to FOX 5 DC. The law covers places such as parks, churches, schools, libraries, and hospitals, restricting guns in these areas to enhance public safety.

The lawsuit was dismissed with prejudice, meaning the Justice Department cannot refile the case, WTOP reported. The judge also denied the DOJ's request for a preliminary injunction to block enforcement of the law. The ruling affirms the county's authority to enact firearm restrictions in designated areas.

The Justice Department had argued that the law was too broad, claiming that a licensed gun owner could not realistically travel through the county without entering restricted zones, even with a valid carry permit and property owner permission. However, the county maintained that the law was revised to comply with a Maryland Supreme Court ruling and to preserve strong firearm restrictions.

Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich welcomed the ruling, emphasizing the county's responsibility to protect public safety and safeguard communities. He stated the law balances respecting constitutional rights with pursuing measures to prevent gun violence, protecting places where residents live, learn, worship, and gather.