In a stunning legal decision, the U.S. Supreme Court has declined to hear a pivotal case regarding the ownership of AR-15 rifles, leaving millions of American gun owners on edge. The court’s refusal to review the Maryland ban on this popular firearm raises questions about the future of Second Amendment rights in America.

The case, brought forth by David Snope against Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown, challenged the state’s prohibition of AR-15s, arguing that the rifles are commonly used by law-abiding citizens and thus protected under the Second Amendment. However, the Supreme Court ruled that the challengers failed to meet the burden of proof, with the justices asserting that the Second Amendment does not safeguard “dangerous and unusual weapons.” This decision has sparked outrage among gun rights advocates who argue that the AR-15, owned by an estimated 20 to 30 million Americans, is far from unusual.

Justice Clarence Thomas sharply criticized the court’s refusal, emphasizing the widespread use of AR-15s for lawful purposes such as self-defense and target shooting. He argued that Maryland’s outright ban on this weapon infringes upon constitutional protections. In a fiery dissent, Thomas lamented the court’s inaction, stating that allowing lower courts to distort Second Amendment rights could lead to dire consequences for gun owners.

The implications of this ruling are profound. As states like Maryland continue to impose strict gun control measures, the Supreme Court’s failure to address the legality of AR-15 ownership leaves the door open for further restrictions. Gun rights advocates are now left to wonder when, if ever, the court will take a stand on this contentious issue. The urgency of this matter cannot be overstated, as tens of millions of Americans await a definitive ruling that could shape the landscape of gun ownership in the United States for years to come.