The DOJ has announced a new Second Amendment Section within its Civil Rights Division—an unprecedented move aimed at challenging state-level gun restrictions, excessive permit fees, long delays, and bans on commonly used firearms. Assistant Attorney General Har Dylan says the DOJ will now treat the right to keep and bear arms as a fundamental civil right and has already taken action against states like California, Hawaii, and Illinois.

However, the announcement clashes with the DOJ’s recent decision to defend the National Firearms Act’s registration requirements—despite Congress effectively eliminating the tax foundation the NFA relies on. Members of Congress argue the DOJ is ignoring legislative intent and attempting to preserve an unauthorized federal gun registry.

This mixed messaging leaves gun owners skeptical. While the new 2A section is a major step forward, many question why the DOJ fights state infringements while protecting federal ones. Supporters hope the new division will lead to bold, lasting protections for Second Amendment rights—not just partial measures or political optics.