New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill ACR141

Introduced
5/9/22  

Caption

Proposes constitutional amendment to establish State right to keep and bear arms.

Impact

If passed, this amendment would provide a clearer constitutional basis for gun ownership rights in New Jersey, aligning state law with the interpretations of the Second Amendment by the U.S. Supreme Court. This could potentially lead to significant legal implications for state and local gun control measures, as it would affirm the right to keep and bear arms at the state constitutional level. The amendment would be presented to voters at the next general election following its agreement, requiring public approval for enactment.

Summary

ACR141 is a proposed constitutional amendment in New Jersey aimed at explicitly establishing the state's right to keep and bear arms. The amendment seeks to alter Article I, paragraph 1 of the New Jersey Constitution to reinforce this right, stating that the right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed. Currently, while the Second Amendment of the United States Constitution provides a federal right to own firearms, the New Jersey Constitution does not explicitly include this right, leading to the necessity for such an amendment.

Contention

The proposed amendment has generated discussion regarding gun rights and state regulation of firearms. Proponents argue that the amendment is necessary to protect individual liberties and ensure that New Jersey residents have the same rights as those in other states that recognize similar provisions. Critics, however, may view it as unnecessary or potentially undermining efforts to regulate firearms for public safety. The debate around this bill reflects broader national conversations regarding gun control and individual rights, particularly in the context of rising concerns over gun violence.

Companion Bills

NJ SCR106

Same As Proposes constitutional amendment to establish State right to keep and bear arms.

Previously Filed As

NJ ACR14

Proposes constitutional amendment to establish State right to keep and bear arms.

NJ HF2796

Right of the people to keep and bear arms protected, and constitutional amendment proposed.

NJ SF719

Constitutional amendment proposal to add a section to Article I protecting the right of people to keep and bear arms

NJ HJR93

Proposing a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right of every person to keep and bear arms.

NJ HJR127

Proposing a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right of every person to keep and bear arms.

NJ SJR11

A Constitutional Amendment To Amend Arkansas Constitution, Article 2, ยง 5, To Protect The Right To Keep And Bear Arms.

NJ HJR0053

A RESOLUTION to propose an amendment to Article I, Section 26 of the Constitution of Tennessee, relative to the right to keep and bear arms.

NJ SJR0659

A RESOLUTION to propose an amendment to Article I, Section 26 of the Constitution of Tennessee, relative to the right to keep and bear arms.

NJ ACR125

Proposes amendment to Constitution establishing a right to comprehensive, affordable, and accessible health care.

NJ A09203

Relates to the right of the people to bear and keep arms.

Similar Bills

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NJ ACR123

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NJ SCR75

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NJ SCR43

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LA HB244

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LA HB678

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LA HB473

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HI SB1225

Proposing An Amendment To Article Xvii, Section 3 Of The Hawaii Constitution To Specify That The Standard For Voter Approval Of A Constitutional Amendment Proposed By The Legislature Is A Majority Of All The Votes Tallied Upon The Question.