Summary

Summary: The U.S. Supreme Court Thursday struck down a century-old New York gun law restricting the carrying of concealed firearms -- except in "sensitive" areas like courthouses and schools -- which could lead to more guns on the streets. The decision is the first major gun ruling in a decade and expands the right to carry a gun outside the home. The ruling has far-reaching implications across the country, and comes as recent mass shootings have renewed the debate over gun safety measures. For a transcript of the story, click here .

Five Facts

• Where did this court case originate?


• Who are the Justices who supported striking down the gun law? Which political party appointed them?


• How did Democratic politicians react?


• What impact will the ruling have on other gun laws in the future? Will it be easier or harder to pass gun control measures?


• Why does requiring that modern-day gun regulations have a historical precedent from hundreds of years ago make it harder to pass gun laws?

Focus Questions

There are many different ways to interpret the Constitution. In this case, the majority of justices held that the Constitution should be interpreted based on how the founders understood it at the time it was written. Others argue that interpretation of the Constitution should change and adapt as society changes. Which position do you agree with? Media Literacy : Who else would you have interviewed for this segment? Were any perspectives overemphasized? Were any missed? Civic engagement activity: The Supreme Court’s opinions have the ability to impact many people’s lives. Watch this PBS Newshour segment on how the ruling will impact state gun laws. Will your state be affected by the ruling? Search “[Insert state here] gun laws Supreme Court” online and look for news stories explaining the impact the ruling will have near you.

For More

Click on the image below to learn more about gun control legislation in Congress.

 

Different perspectives : Check out TYT's story about the potential effects of the Supreme Court's decision on corporations like weapons manufacturers. How might gun manufacturers benefit from the decision, according to Ana Kasparian? What does Kasparian say will be the "ripple effects" of the Court's decision on other states like California that have similar laws? Do you live in a state that has a gun law like New York's law? How could you find out if you're not sure? Why do you think Jessica Burbank who uses a gun in the event of self-defense disagrees with the Court's decision?

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Leo Kamin, a rising sophomore at Amherst College and intern at NewsHour Classroom, wrote today’s Daily News Lesson with editing by Victoria Pasquantonio.

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