California Attorney General Ignores Supreme Court Ruling in Handgun Ban Defense

California Attorney General Rob Bonta seems to have overlooked the Supreme Court’s ruling from Wolford v. Lopez while advocating for the state’s prohibition on Glock-style handguns.

In a recent court filing, following a lack of discussion about a settlement with Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Harmeet Dhillon, the Department of Justice (DOJ) initiated action in federal court. They seek to nullify the Glock ban and California’s Dangerous Handgun Law, aiming for a temporary restraining order against the ban that Bonta opposed during a court session on July 2. Interestingly, while he mentioned the Supreme Court’s decision briefly, he failed to delve into its key implications.

Bonta’s office contended before U.S. District Judge Ann Huang that “AB 1127 is a reasonable legislative response to the increasing prevalence of what California identifies as ‘pistol converters,’ known federally as ‘machine gun conversion devices’ or ‘MCDs.'”

Kamala Harris, criticized in the 2024 election for her stance on the Second Amendment, shared in an interview with Oprah Winfrey that she possesses a defensive firearm at her California residence.

The filing argues that semi-automatic pistols that can swiftly transition into machine guns using 3D-printed converters reflect a “uniquely modern” challenge, referencing the Wolford decision along with precedents from past Supreme Court cases regarding the Second Amendment.

California was the pioneer state to impose restrictions on widely used semi-automatic handguns, spearheaded by Governor Gavin Newsom. The recently signed AB1127 is set to take effect in October 2025.

Critics assert Bonta’s arguments are temporary measures that sidestep recent Supreme Court findings. Konstadinos Moros, of the Second Amendment Foundation, pointed out, “While Mr. Bonta insists the Glock isn’t classified as an arm, the Supreme Court clarified that a weapon is ‘any weapon customarily used for offensive or defensive purposes.'” He expressed hope for a favorable ruling from the court that would lead to issuing the requested restraining order against Glock sales.

Over 23 million Glock pistols have been purchased globally, making them a favored choice among civilians and law enforcement in the U.S.

CD Michel, president of the California Rifle and Pistol Association, commented on the lengths California politicians go to in order to limit access to popular firearms like the Glock, which even Kamala Harris has cited as her preferred home defense option. He reiterated that the law already prohibits converting firearms into fully automatic versions and restricts possession of parts for such conversions, arguing that California laws are increasingly stifling individuals’ choices in handguns that suit their needs.

Bonta didn’t provide immediate feedback when asked for a comment on this matter.