California’s SB452: New Law Could Ban Sale of Semi-Automatic Handguns by 2028

The state of California has taken a major step that could effectively ban the sale of all new semi-automatic handguns by the year 2028. The new legislation, known as SB452, introduces sweeping changes to the Unsafe Handgun Act, creating concern across the firearm community and among Second Amendment supporters.

What Is SB452?

SB452 is a California law signed in 2023 that requires all semi-automatic handguns sold in California to feature microstamping technology beginning January 1, 2028. Unlike earlier versions of the roster law, which allowed legacy handguns to remain on the market, SB452 applies to all new and existing models sold by licensed dealers in the state.

Why This Matters to California Gun Owners

This law may not ban semi-auto handguns directly, but by requiring technology that no gun manufacturer currently uses or produces at scale, it creates a de facto semi-automatic handgun ban in California. Microstamping—designed to imprint unique identifiers on spent shell casings—is not in widespread use and is considered unworkable by many in the industry.

DOJ Report Declares Microstamping "Viable"

For SB452 to move forward, the California Department of Justice (DOJ) was required to assess whether microstamping is a viable technology. In a report recently released by Attorney General Rob Bonta, the DOJ claimed that microstamping is indeed viable, thus activating the law’s 2028 deadline.

Excerpt from DOJ Press Release:

“Beginning January 1, 2028, the Unsafe Handgun Act will mandate that all semi-automatic handguns sold by licensed dealers must be verified as Microstamp-enabled.” — Office of the California Attorney General

What Happens After January 1, 2028?

• Dealers will be prohibited from selling new semi-automatic handguns that do not meet the microstamping requirement.
• Nothing currently on the California handgun roster includes this technology.
• Manufacturers are unlikely to develop these features due to cost, complexity, and lack of demand elsewhere.
• Private ownership of existing handguns is not affected—this only impacts new sales.

How Gun Owners Can Prepare

If you're a California resident or a dealer in the state, it's critical to stay updated on these developments. This law may limit your access to modern self-defense handguns and could have serious implications for Second Amendment rights in California.

Spread the word to fellow gun owners and consider joining advocacy efforts that aim to challenge laws like SB452. Legal challenges may emerge based on the unavailability of compliant firearms and the impact on consumer rights.

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Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult an attorney regarding your specific legal rights and obligations under current California firearm laws.