A major Second Amendment ruling could be just days away. The Ninth Circuit is now within the typical decision window for Sanchez v. Bonta, a lawsuit challenging California’s complete ban on civilian suppressor ownership.
Unlike most states, California outright prohibits suppressors for ordinary citizens. The lower court upheld the ban, but the case was appealed and argued before the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit late last year.
Under the Supreme Court’s decision in New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen, firearm regulations must align with America’s historical tradition of gun laws. Critics argue there is no founding-era precedent for banning suppressors.
If the Ninth Circuit rules against California, the decision could also affect Hawaii and potentially set the stage for a Supreme Court showdown. A ruling is expected soon, and it could have nationwide implications for suppressor bans.