MARYLAND (WBFF) - Gun stores in Maryland were abuzz with heightened interest on Wednesday, following a significant ruling by a federal appeals court declaring Maryland's law requiring handgun qualification licenses as unconstitutional. The decision has stirred a contentious debate between proponents of stricter gun control measures and advocates supporting the right to bear arms.

The ruling came as a surprise to many, including Frank Loane, the owner of Pasadena Gun and Pawn, who expressed his shock, saying, "I really didn't expect it. I was shocked when I saw it." The law, which has been in place for ten years, mandated that individuals looking to purchase handguns in Maryland must first undergo a thorough background check, complete a gun safety course, and endure a waiting period of up to 30 days before obtaining approval to purchase a firearm.

Without the requirement for a handgun qualification license, prospective buyers will still be subjected to a background check and a mandatory waiting period of 7 days before being able to purchase a handgun. Proponents of the ruling argue that this will create an opportunity for more individuals to exercise their Second Amendment rights and protect themselves.

"The decision will unequivocally lead to more gun violence and firearm-related deaths," expressed Senate President Bill Ferguson, reflecting the concerns raised by opponents of the ruling. They fear that the absence of the qualification license will lead to increased access to firearms, potentially exacerbating incidents of gun violence.

Conversely, gun advocates view this court ruling as a victory for gun rights. They argue that the qualification license was an unnecessary barrier that infringed on their rights to self-defense. They believe that allowing more individuals to own handguns will enhance personal safety and provide a necessary means of protection.

In light of this ruling, the debate surrounding gun control has been reignited in Maryland. While proponents of the law are preparing to challenge the decision through further legal avenues, gun stores are experiencing an influx of interest from individuals eager to exercise their newfound freedom to purchase handguns without the qualification license.

As the ethical and legal implications of this ruling continue to unfold, the future of Maryland's gun control landscape hangs in the balance. Advocates for stricter gun control measures argue that this ruling may inadvertently lead to an increase in gun violence, while supporters of the Second Amendment claim that it aligns with their constitutional rights. Only time will tell how the state of Maryland will navigate this complex and contentious issue.