Brady Denounces Judicial Decision to Allow Machine Gun Possession on “Second Amendment” Grounds

U.S. District Judge Broomes’ ruling contradicts years of Supreme Court precedent allowing for the regulation of machine guns; could lead to flood of military-style weapons on U.S. streets.

WASHINGTON, D.C., August 23, 2024 — Brady, the nation’s oldest gun violence prevention organization, strongly condemns U.S. District Judge John W. Broomes’ decision to dismiss on asserted “Second Amendment” grounds criminal charges for illegally possessing a machine gun. This decision – which was announced on Wednesday in a case in a federal district court in Kansas – contravenes clear Supreme Court precedent allowing for the regulation of machine guns.

Director of Constitutional Litigation Shira Feldman said:

“Judge Broomes’ ruling is dangerous and irresponsible. The Supreme Court has always held that the right to bear arms is not unlimited – particularly when it comes to military-grade weapons of war. This decision flies in the face of the Constitution and puts the safety of our families, kids, and communities at risk. We cannot allow such a radical misreading of the law to go unchallenged.”