Second Amendment advocates scored a significant legal victory Thursday after the Justice Department declined to immediately appeal a federal court ruling that struck down longstanding federal permitting requirements for suppressors and short-barreled firearms. U.S. District Judge James Wesley Hendr issued the decision, which eliminates the need for individuals to obtain federal approval and pay taxes to possess these items.

The ruling targets provisions of the National Firearms Act that have required registration with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives since 1934. Suppressors and short-barreled firearms had been subject to strict controls, including background checks and a $200 tax stamp for each transfer.

Advocates argued that these requirements infringed on Second Amendment rights, particularly following the Supreme Court's Bruen decision that expanded protections for firearm ownership. The Justice Department's decision not to seek an immediate appeal allows the ruling to take effect without further delay at the appellate level.

Gun owners and industry groups welcomed the outcome as a step toward reducing regulatory burdens on lawful firearm accessories. The change could simplify acquisition processes and lower costs for compliant citizens. Legal observers noted that the case may influence similar challenges to other firearm regulations in federal courts.

The decision reflects ongoing debates over the scope of federal authority in regulating firearms and accessories. No immediate plans for further action by the department were announced following the decision.