California – October 16, 2025 – The National Rifle Association (NRA) and several gun rights organizations have filed a lawsuit challenging California’s new law banning Glock-style handguns equipped with conversion “switches” that allow them to function as fully automatic weapons. The legal action comes days after Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 1127, sparking intense debate over Second Amendment rights.
What Happened
The lawsuit, filed by the NRA alongside the Firearms Policy Coalition, Second Amendment Foundation, Poway Weapons & Gear, and two NRA members, contends that California’s ban on Glock-style handguns violates the U.S. Constitution. Specifically, the suit argues that the law infringes on the Second Amendment by prohibiting the acquisition and sale of firearms commonly used by law-abiding citizens.
Assembly Bill 1127, signed into law by Gov. Gavin Newsom last week, prohibits licensed firearms dealers from selling, transferring, or delivering semiautomatic pistols with a cruciform trigger bar that can be converted into fully automatic weapons using simple tools or attachments. The law exempts hammer-fired pistols and striker-fired pistols without a cruciform trigger bar, as well as law enforcement officers. It is scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2026.
Background of the Case
California has long regulated firearms with features that increase firepower, citing public safety concerns. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) reported a 570% increase in the seizure of converted devices from 2017 to 2021, highlighting concerns over illegal conversions.
Gun rights advocates argue that semiautomatic handguns with cruciform trigger bars are constitutionally protected and are no different in their use from other semiautomatic firearms. The lawsuit emphasizes that banning these commonly owned firearms contradicts U.S. Supreme Court precedent.
Legal Arguments
The plaintiffs argue that AB 1127 violates the Second Amendment by preventing citizens from acquiring firearms in common use. “A law that bans the sale of—and correspondingly prevents citizens from acquiring—a weapon in common use violates the Second Amendment,” the lawsuit states. It further asserts that semiautomatic handguns with cruciform trigger bars “are not different from any other type of semiautomatic handgun in a constitutionally relevant way.”
Critics of the law, including private gun owners, argue that banning conversion devices is an overreach that could lead to broader restrictions on legal firearms. “You can make a switch with a 3D printer, you going to outlaw those too?” one gun owner told Fox 11, reflecting concern over potential future limitations.
Public and Social Media Reactions
The law has prompted strong reactions on social media, with supporters citing public safety and opponents highlighting Second Amendment rights. Hashtags such as #GunRights, #SecondAmendment, and #CaliforniaGunBan have been trending, reflecting nationwide debate. Gun advocacy groups are urging citizens to support the lawsuit and challenge what they see as unconstitutional restrictions.
What Happens Next
The case is expected to proceed through federal court, where judges will review the constitutional claims against the state’s justification for the ban. Both sides are preparing to present arguments regarding public safety, legal precedent, and the scope of Second Amendment protections.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
