California’s gun owners live under a regime that attempts to stymie their right to keep and bear arms at every turn. One of the major impediments erected by the state was to require that purchasers undergo a criminal background check every time they buy ammunition.
Now comes word that the National Rifle Association’s (NRA) ongoing legal battle with state officials, Rhode v. Bonta, will enter a new phase.
California officials want to legislate the Second Amendment out of meaningful existence
The NRA and its allies won an initial victory in January of 2024 when a district court struck down the Golden State law. The court ruled that the restrictions clearly violated the Second Amendment.
In July of this year, a Ninth Circuit three-judge panel upheld the prior ruling and entered a permanent injunction against officials enforcing the statute. The jurists relied on Bruen’s standard and the lack of historical foundation for such infringements.
But California being California, lawmakers could not leave well enough alone.
The US Supreme Court may ultimately decide this case
In August, state officials petitioned for rehearing en banc (full court), and earlier this week that request was granted. Oral arguments are scheduled for presentation before the Ninth Circuit on March 23, 2026.
Unfortunately, the Ninth Circuit has a track record of opposition to gun rights, and there’s little reason to believe Rhode will be any different.
The good news is that no matter what the court decides, the losing party will almost certainly appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court. Despite widespread expectations that the current bench favors protecting the Second Amendment, there are many instances of this court turning away gun-related cases.
The right to keep and bear arms encompasses the ability to obtain ammunition without state oppression. California’s gun control regime knows this, but continues to fight against carrying out its constitutional duties.
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