May 21, 2020
By Jake McCann
Staff Writer
Governor Phil Murphy closed all non-essential stores in New Jersey on March 21 due to the coronavirus pandemic. While gun stores were not originally considered an essential store, it was added to the list on March 30 after the federal Department of Homeland Security issued an advisory on March 28 stating that gun dealers are “critical infrastructure.”
Consequently, guns continue to be sold in New Jersey during the pandemic by appointment only and during limited hours.
The Department of Homeland Security’s advisory was very important because guns are necessary during this time of crisis. If riots were to break out or looting were to take place, as it already did in Fresno, Calif., guns would be needed so people could protect themselves and so the situation wouldn’t get out of hand.
It is especially crucial in these desperate times for families to have the opportunity to protect themselves and their loved ones.
Also, if gun stores would be deemed non-essential, people might be more inclined to stock up on weapons, particularly to protect themselves against home invasion and home robbery as well as domestic violence, hate crimes and vehicle theft, all of which are still happening during the pandemic. It is especially crucial in these desperate times for families to have the opportunity to protect themselves and their loved ones.
Finally, gun stores should have the right to stay open because of the Second Amendment. The Second Amendment was meant to protect people from a tyrannical government, which is exactly what could happen if Americans lose their right to purchase arms when they are most needed.
Governor Murphy originally deemed gun stores non-essential, but luckily, the threat of lawsuits forced him to reopen them. As a result, an important and necessary right was restored to the people of New Jersey.
