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Rachel's Washington, DC Blog

By Rachel Cooper, About.com Guide to Washington, DC since 2004

Supreme Court Overturns DC Ban on Handguns

Thursday June 26, 2008
The United States Supreme Court ruled in favor of the 2nd Amendment today, overturning the current ban of private handgun possession in the District of Columbia. The ruling supports the individual's right to bear arms and unfortunately could lead to more handgun violence in the nation's capital. (just what we need during one of the most violent years in recent history) I understand the desire for self defense in your own home, but I am concerned about more guns being in circulation. The law will require that all firearms be registered with the Metropolitan Police Department’s Firearms Registration Section before they may be lawfully possessed. Also, automatic and semiautomatic handguns generally remain illegal and may not be registered. The Supreme Court’s ruling is limited to handguns in the home and does not entitle anyone to carry firearms outside his or her own home. Individuals with specific questions are encouraged to contact the Firearms Registration Section at (202) 727-4275.

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