Legal battle over federal firearms ban heads to Supreme Court of Canada

The Supreme Court of Canada will hear arguments next week on the constitutionality of a federal ban on a wide range of firearms, including popular models like the AR-15 and Ruger Mini-14. The ban, imposed by the Liberal government in May 2020, prohibits the use, sale, and importation of 1,500 firearm types. Opponents of the ban, including firearm owners, businesses, and hunters, lost their appeal in October 2023 and April 2025.

The ban has been extended until 90 days after the Supreme Court's decision, which is expected next year. Key arguments revolve around whether the government's use of its powers to ban firearms deemed "reasonable for use in Canada for hunting or sporting purposes" was justified. Federal lawyers argue the ban is necessary to address public safety concerns, citing examples of mass shootings in Canada and abroad.

The opposition argues the ban disproportionately affects law-abiding Canadians, disrupting their lawful use of firearms and exposing them to criminal liability.