California Gun Show Ban Upheld by Appeals Court
The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals upheld California’s ban on gun shows at county fairs and public properties, ruling that the laws do not infringe on the rights of firearm sellers or buyers. The decision overturns a previous ruling that blocked the bans, which were written by Democratic state Sen. Dave Min.
The laws, passed in 2021 and 2022, prohibit gun shows at county fairgrounds on state-owned land. Despite claims of violating First Amendment rights, the appeals court determined that the bans only restrict sales agreements on public property, not discussions or advertisements about firearms.
California Attorney General Rob Bonta praised the ruling as a victory against gun violence, emphasizing that guns should not be sold on state-owned property. Gun-control groups argue that gun shows pose dangers, including making weapons accessible to children and enabling illegal purchases.
The decision is expected to be appealed by the California Rifle & Pistol Association, who defend the rights of gun owners. While the legal battle continues, Min expressed hope that the laws would contribute to a safer society with fewer gun violence incidents.