Ninth Circuit Upholds California's Ban on Large-Capacity Magazines
Gov. Gavin Newson also took a jab at the Trump administration with today's decision.
San Francisco, California – In a pivotal decision, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit has upheld California's prohibition on large-capacity magazines (LCMs), defined as firearm magazines holding more than ten rounds of ammunition. The court's en banc ruling reverses earlier judgments that deemed the ban unconstitutional, marking a significant development in the ongoing national discourse on gun control and Second Amendment rights.
Background of the Case
The legal battle began in 2017 after California voters approved 216's Proposition 63 with 63 percent of the popular vote, reinforcing the state's existing restrictions on LCMs by banning their possession outright. This measure faced immediate legal challenges from gun owners, led by plaintiff Virginia Duncan, who argued that the ban infringed upon their Second Amendment rights.
U.S. District Judge Roger Benitez initially sided with the plaintiffs, issuing a permanent injunction against the law's enforcement. However, the state appealed, propelling the case through a series of judicial reviews.
The Appellate Court's Decision
In its decision, the Ninth Circuit concluded that California's LCM ban aligns with the Second Amendment. The court emphasized that while the law imposes some burden on the right to self-defense, it serves a substantial public safety interest by potentially reducing the lethality of mass shootings.
The majority opinion stated that the ban "reasonably supports California's efforts to reduce gun violence."
Reactions from State Officials
California Governor Gavin Newsom lauded the court's decision, asserting that it represents a critical step toward enhancing public safety. Newson also took a jab at the Trump administration.
“When the executive branch disagrees with a court ruling, the answer isn’t to ignore it — it’s to appeal to a higher court,” Newsom said. “We did that. We won. That’s how law and order works.”
Attorney General Rob Bonta also welcomed the verdict, highlighting its alignment with the state's commitment to curbing gun violence.
“Today, the court found that California’s ban on large-capacity magazines does not violate the Second Amendment," Bonta said. "California’s ban on large-capacity magazines has been a key component in our efforts to fight gun violence and prevent senseless injuries and deaths and the devastation of communities and families that are left behind in the wake of mass shootings.”
Implications and Next Steps
Opponents of the ban may seek further review by the U.S. Supreme Court, which could lead to a definitive interpretation of the Second Amendment concerning large-capacity magazines.
