NRA Wins Case Against Los Angeles County

by
posted on January 21, 2022
NRA-ILA logo on American flag

The Ninth Circuit sided with the National Rifle Association Institute for Legislative Action (NRA-ILA) on Thursday when it struck down a Los Angeles County order that forced gun stores and shooting ranges to close in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. NRA-ILA originally challenged this order in March of 2020, and filed an appeal a year later.

"The court today rightfully recognized that Los Angeles County violated Second Amendment rights when it shut down gun stores and ranges in the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic," said Michael Jean, NRA's director of the Office of Litigation Counsel. "This is an important decision. It ensures that California -- or any state -- cannot use a crisis to trample on the Constitutional rights of citizens."

The decision highlights that these orders, which prevented the exercise of basic constitutional rights like acquiring and practicing with firearms, could have been “perpetually extended if the County so decided.”

Given the current state of the world and the periodic resurgence of COVID-19 continuing to affect daily life, this decision ensures that states cannot restrict the fundamental rights of Americans for any reason. In this spirit, the decision concludes by citing Justice Gorsuch’s words: “Even in times of crisis—perhaps especially in times of crisis—we have a duty to hold governments to the Constitution.”

NRA-ILA also challenged overbearing COVID-19 restrictions in New Mexico and New York. In addition to Los Angeles County, NRA-ILA challenged four additional counties in northern California.

The case is captioned Martinez v. Villanueva. NRA-ILA was joined by local gun stores and ranges, the California Gun Rights Foundation, the Firearms Policy Coalition, and the Second Amendment Foundation in this lawsuit.

Latest

Homan Imperato Lede
Homan Imperato Lede

Henry Repeating Arms & National Police Defense Foundation Honor American Heroes

Border Czar Tom Homan joined Henry CEO Anthony Imperato to create a one-of-a-kind rifle and display case for auction.

Turkey-Hunting Tips: You're Not the Only Predator

Winchester Deadly Passion Ambassador and NRAWomen.com writer Melissa Bachman wanted to take a boss gobbler, but it turned out she needed to take a number ...

NRA Gun Safety Training Brings Families Together

Recognized the world over, NRA training offers a safe, supportive entry to your family’s favorite new hobby.

Georgia Peaches! Hunters for the Hungry Donate 86K Pounds of Venison

These hunters aren't just managing wildlife — they’re feeding neighbors and strengthening communities.

First Impressions: Girsan MC1911 Gold Lux .38 Super

Don't let the name throw you off; despite its beauty and quality, this 1911-style pistol is surprisingly affordable.

Wild Wings: 6 Young Women & Their First Pheasants

Here's how a community comes together to introduce youth who've never hunted before to a sport they'll never abandon.

Interests



Get the best of NRA Family delivered to your inbox.