California’s controversial new gun law, AB127, often dubbed the “Glock Ban,” is already facing a major federal challenge. On October 13th, just three days after Governor Gavin Newsom signed the bill, a federal lawsuit titled James v. Bonta was filed in the Southern District of California.

The case, brought by three major Second Amendment organizations — the Firearms Policy Coalition (FPC), Second Amendment Foundation (SAF), and the National Rifle Association (NRA) — argues that AB127’s prohibition on certain semi-automatic handguns, including popular Glock-style pistols, is a direct violation of the Second Amendment.

According to the complaint, the lawsuit seeks declaratory and injunctive relief, asking the court to rule Penal Code Section 27595A unconstitutional and block its enforcement. The plaintiffs argue that these handguns are “in common use” for lawful self-defense and cannot be banned under existing Supreme Court precedent (referencing D.C. v. Heller).

What’s notable is that California has previously admitted in court that firearms commonly used for self-defense cannot be banned — a point that could significantly weaken the state’s defense. Critics of AB127 claim it’s a politically driven attempt to further restrict Second Amendment rights, with minimal justification beyond advancing an anti-gun agenda.

In response to the lawsuit, FPC President Brandon Combs stated:

“The Constitution does not allow elitist politicians to decide which constitutionally protected guns the people may own. California doesn’t get to tell the people that their rights end where Governor Newsom’s anti-Second Amendment politics begin.”

If successful, this case could set a major legal precedent limiting California’s ability to impose similar firearm restrictions in the future. While legal battles like this often take months or years, gun rights advocates are hopeful that the courts will issue an injunction before July 1, 2026, when the law is set to take effect.

For now, all eyes are on Judge Bencivengo’s court, where James v. Bonta may become the next landmark case shaping the future of gun rights in America.