Growing Concerns Over Government Overreach and Second Amendment Rights

Once again, the Second Amendment is under attack, as pressure mounts for the Department of Justice to investigate New York’s tightening firearms regulations. Many Americans, particularly gun owners and second amendment advocates, are watching with concern as individuals and groups question whether these laws truly ensure public safety—or walk dangerously close to violating constitutional freedoms.

New York’s Tactics Leave Legal Gun Owners in the Crosshairs

It’s no secret that New York has been relentless in imposing gun control measures. Under the guise of promoting safety, the state has enacted a slew of regulations that critics say unfairly target law-abiding citizens. With calls growing for DOJ to probe New York gun laws, it’s clear that people are no longer staying silent about these possibly unconstitutional changes.

In the wake of the 2022 Supreme Court ruling in New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen, the state reacted by passing new measures aimed at circumventing the intent of that landmark decision. Those laws, such as the Concealed Carry Improvement Act, introduced requirements that many view as deliberately aimed at obstructing legal carry. Even after the Court spoke clearly on the matter, New York turned around and narrowed carry zones, increased permit scrutiny, and added subjective “character” assessments for applicants. It seems the state is doing all it can to stifle the rights affirmed by the highest court in the land.

Lawmakers and Grassroots Groups Speak Out

This growing overreach hasn’t gone unnoticed. Grassroots organizations, pro-gun attorneys, and state representatives across the country are speaking out. They’ve asked the U.S. Department of Justice to step in and investigate whether New York’s actions constitute a violation of civil rights.

Key concerns voiced include:

• Unconstitutional “sensitive locations” designations – Preventing concealed carry in numerous public spaces, arguably beyond what the Supreme Court intended
• Invasive gun permit processes – New requirements such as turning over social media accounts for review and invasive personal interviews
• Deliberate delays and denials – Legal experts argue officials are rejecting otherwise qualified applicants without clear justification

Every action taken under the phrasing of “common-sense gun legislation” now seems to have one true target: law-abiding firearms owners. Not criminals. Just everyday citizens who wish to exercise their right to self-defense, be it in the home, in church, or walking to the grocery store.

What Does This Mean for Firearms Training and Law-Abiding Citizens?

Here at Fortress Firearms Training in Fountain Inn, SC, we believe deeply in the importance of informed and responsible gun ownership. But what’s happening in New York tells us a larger story—a warning, even. When states begin to trample on the constitutional rights of citizens under the pretext of safety, firearm education becomes more critical than ever.

Gun owners must not only know how to handle their weapon safely and proficiently, but they must also understand their rights. It’s increasingly important to remain informed and ready to respond legally and effectively if faced with similar restrictions. It’s one reason our courses cover laws, rights, and practical real-world scenarios—to ensure that our students are both safe and protected in every sense of the word.

Freedom Is Not Regional—It’s National

While South Carolina has historically been respectful of Second Amendment rights, it would be naive to believe that overreach like New York’s couldn’t spread. In today’s political landscape, what happens in one state often sets a trend that others can follow. That’s why calls growing for DOJ to probe New York gun laws are not just about one region—they’re about defending our rights in every corner of the United States.

If New York is allowed to rewrite the rules despite the Supreme Court’s clarity, it opens the door for future legislation elsewhere—legislation that will slowly but steadily strip away freedoms that we’ve held sacred for over two centuries.

Gun Control Isn’t About Safety, It’s About Control

Let’s not ignore what so many gun owners already understand: most gun control proposals aren’t aimed at stopping crime. Instead, they’re aimed at making access to firearms harder for people who follow the rules. Criminals, by definition, do not concern themselves with regulations. Laws that add expensive licensing, bureaucratic interference, or arbitrary restrictions only serve to discourage honest citizens from owning and carrying firearms.

If safety were truly the goal, lawmakers would work with gun educators and responsible owners—not against them. They’d acknowledge the role of firearms instructors, like those at Fortress Firearms Training, in preventing misuse and promoting safety. Instead, legal gun ownership is vilified, often using fear and misinformation to sway public opinion.

Now Is the Time to Get Involved and Stay Trained

This ongoing battle for our fundamental rights should serve as a wake-up call. Gun owners cannot afford to be silent. With calls growing for DOJ to probe New York gun laws, now is the time to show support for the Constitution and demand that federal authorities take action to preserve it.

Here are some ways to stand strong in support of the Second Amendment:

• Enroll in firearms safety and training courses – Gain the skills and knowledge necessary to be a responsible gun owner.
• Join a local or national gun rights organization – Support the legal fight to protect your rights.
• Contact your representatives – Let them know where you stand on the issue of your constitutional freedoms.
• Stay informed about state and national legislation – Don’t let new rules slip under the radar.

Conclusion

The right to bear arms is not a partisan issue—it’s a constitutional one. But if we’re being honest, the loudest voices pushing back against that right come from the political left, where restriction is often confused with responsibility. That’s why we’re seeing calls growing for DOJ to probe New York gun laws—because some of us still recognize when a line has been crossed. It’s not just about guns—it’s about freedom, independence, and self-reliance.

At Fortress Firearms Training, we are proud to equip American citizens to take ownership of their safety and liberty. Visit fftcwp.org to learn more about our firearms training courses and how you can stay prepared and informed in today’s ever-changing political climate.