US Supreme Court Affirms Stricter Measures on Ghost Guns Amid Rising Concerns

In a landmark decision, the US Supreme Court has upheld stringent gun control regulations introduced by the Biden administration aimed at curbing the proliferation of ghost guns—firearms that are largely untraceable and can be assembled at home using readily available kits.

The ruling, passed with a 7-2 majority, mandates that manufacturers affix serial numbers to these kits and conduct background checks for purchasers. This decision addresses a growing national crisis; advocacy groups have categorized ghost guns as the fastest-rising threat to gun safety in America, with instances of such firearms recovered from crime scenes soaring by over 1,000% since 2017.

Justice Neil Gorsuch, a conservative member of the Court, emphasized the ease of assembling these guns, stating, “Perhaps a half hour of work is required before anyone can fire a shot.” His words highlight the alarming accessibility of these kits, which are marketed with slogans like “Buy, Build, Shoot.”

The Biden administration first introduced these regulations in 2022 after law enforcement officials voiced concerns about the surge in ghost gun incidents, noting their use in a growing number of violent crimes. Gun rights advocates have staunchly opposed the regulations, claiming they represent an overreach by the government into personal liberties and firearms ownership.

The core issue examined by the Court revolved around a 1968 law that directs gun manufacturers and dealers to perform background checks, maintain sales records, and issue serial numbers. Lawyers representing the Biden administration argued that the regulations should extend to ghost guns as they empower anyone with basic tools and online video instructions to produce a functional weapon swiftly and easily.

Ghost guns earned additional notoriety following high-profile incidents, including the tragic December 2024 murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in New York. Investigators reported that the firearm linked to the suspect, Luigi Mangione, appeared to be a ghost gun, underscoring the urgency of the issue.

As the debate continues, the incoming Trump administration's stance on gun violence and regulatory measures remains uncertain. In February, former President Trump had signed an executive order directing the Attorney General to review the gun control policies established under Biden, leaving many to speculate about potential changes in approach toward gun legislation.

With ghost guns becoming increasingly prevalent and influential in the landscape of gun violence in the US, the Supreme Court's ruling serves as a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle for gun control and public safety. How this will all unfold in the future remains to be seen—stay tuned for the next developments in this crucial issue!