New Delhi, July 1 -- The US Supreme Court has agreed to hear a closely watched challenge to state and local bans on semiautomatic rifles, setting up a landmark case that could reshape gun laws across the country.

The justices announced on Tuesday that they will review appeals challenging assault weapon bans in Connecticut and Cook County, Illinois, which includes Chicago. The cases will determine whether prohibitions on AR-15-style rifles and similar firearms violate the Second Amendment.

Arguments are expected to be heard during the court's fall term.

The court will examine whether states and local governments can constitutionally ban semiautomatic rifles commonly referred to as assault weapons.

The challenge comes after the Supreme ...