The U.S. Department of Justice has issued a legal threat to California, warning it will file a lawsuit if the state moves forward with a law set to ban the sale of Glock-style handguns. The law, scheduled to take effect July 1, is facing opposition from federal officials who argue it infringes on the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding citizens.
Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Harmeet Dhillon sent a letter Tuesday to California Governor Gavin Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta, stating the federal government is prepared to sue unless the state rescinds the restrictions. Dhillon publicly announced the warning on social media, stating, "On July 1, CA plans to impose an unconstitutional ‘Glock Ban.’ Today, I notified @CAGovernor & @AGRobBonta to drop the unconstitutional restrictions on law-abiding citizens’ rights to purchase legal firearms before the ban goes into effect, or we will sue. Stay tuned!"
The legislation in question, Assembly Bill 1127, creates a new category termed “machinegun-convertible pistols,” prohibiting licensed firearm dealers from selling newly stocked semi-automatic handguns that fit this classification. Supporters of the bill contend it aims to prevent the conversion of semi-automatic pistols into fully automatic weapons using aftermarket devices. However, critics argue that the law effectively targets commonly owned handguns like those produced by Glock, which are popular for self-defense.
In her letter, Dhillon invoked the Supreme Court's decision in District of Columbia v. Heller, which affirmed an individual's right to possess firearms for self-defense. She argued that prohibiting handguns, which are frequently chosen for self-defense, is unconstitutional. The Justice Department also referenced California's handgun roster system, which mandates specific safety features for handguns sold commercially. Dhillon noted that a federal district court had previously found aspects of this roster system unconstitutional, though that ruling is currently under appeal.
The DOJ has authorized a federal lawsuit challenging both the impending handgun sales restrictions and the roster requirements, alleging violations of Second Amendment rights. The department has indicated it may delay filing the suit if California agrees to negotiations before June 30. If California does not respond or agree to negotiations by the stated deadline, federal officials suggested a lawsuit could be filed as early as the following week.
The DOJ is seeking, at a minimum, to halt the enforcement of the challenged laws, secure an acknowledgment that the restrictions are unconstitutional, and obtain a court-enforceable agreement to prevent similar measures in the future.
California is known for having some of the strictest firearm regulations in the United States. The state enforces universal background checks for all firearm and ammunition purchases, a 10-day waiting period, bans on most military-style assault weapons, and restricts handgun sales to models on an official “Handgun Roster.” The state also has “red flag” laws allowing courts to temporarily remove firearms from individuals deemed a danger.
While the new law would stop licensed dealers from selling the specified firearms, it does not criminalize existing ownership. Californians who already own these types of handguns may continue to possess them legally, and private party transfers between individuals are still permitted under the legislation. Officials from Attorney General Bonta’s office and Governor Newsom’s office have been contacted for comment.