Most challenges to gun-control ordinances in recent years in Pennsylvania have been dismissed outright — generally, because the plaintiffs lacked standing after the courts overturned a state law known as Act 192.
Lower Merion Township’s effort to ban the use of guns in its parks is different, however, because one plaintiff in the suit challenging that ordinance resides in the township.
While Montgomery County Court ultimately upheld Lower Merion's ordinance, an appeals court issued a 2-1 decision a couple weeks ago against the township.
Township officials now say they'll appeal the most recent ruling. They couldn't provide details on how much it has cost to defend the ordinance.
Plaintiffs' expenses are $50,000 thus far. They'd have to win a federal lawsuit to get reimbursed, which their attorney Josh Prince said they will pursue at some point.
READ MORE
Keystone Crossroads is a statewide public media initiative reporting on the challenges facing Pennsylvania's cities. WPSU is a participating station.
