In a significant development, a federal judge in California has issued a temporary block on a state law that sought to prohibit carrying firearms in most public places. The judge ruled that the law, signed by Governor Gavin Newsom in September, was in violation of the Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, as it impinged on people’s ability to defend themselves and their loved ones.
The legislation, originally scheduled to come into effect on January 1, aimed to ban the carrying of concealed firearms in 26 locations, including public parks, playgrounds, churches, banks, and zoos. This restriction applied regardless of whether individuals possessed a concealed carry permit. Exceptions were made for privately owned businesses displaying signage permitting firearms on their premises.
U.S. District Judge Cormac Carney granted a preliminary injunction against the law, deeming it “sweeping, repugnant to the Second Amendment, and openly defiant of the Supreme Court.” This decision stands as a victory for the California Rifle and Pistol Association, which had initiated legal action against the law. The legislation had sought to revise the state’s regulations for concealed carry permits, responding to the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in New York State Rifle and Pistol Association v. Bruen.
The judge’s ruling comes amidst a broader national discourse on gun control. Chuck Michel, the president of the California Rifle and Pistol Association, criticized California’s progressive politicians for attempting to circumvent the Supreme Court’s mandate, applauding the court for recognizing the state’s actions.
Michel argued that under the contested law, gun permit holders would face challenges even when driving across town, as they would inevitably pass through prohibited areas, potentially breaking the law. He contended that the judge’s decision contributes to the safety of Californians, as law-abiding citizens are better equipped to deter criminals when they can defend themselves.
Governor Gavin Newsom expressed disappointment with the ruling and pledged to continue advocating for stricter gun control measures. He criticized the decision, characterizing it as allowing the proliferation of guns in spaces like hospitals, libraries, and children’s playgrounds, areas that should be safe for everyone.
Newsom, positioning himself as a national leader on gun control and drawing attention as a potential presidential candidate, has been actively involved in signing various bills addressing gun-related issues. This includes measures targeting untraceable “ghost guns,” curbing the marketing of firearms to children, and allowing individuals to bring lawsuits related to gun violence—a legislative approach modeled after a Texas anti-abortion law.
U.S. District Judge Cormac Carney, a former Orange County Superior Court judge appointed to the federal bench by President George W. Bush in 2003, delivered the ruling that will likely fuel ongoing debates on the intersection of gun rights and public safety.