Justice Department Files Lawsuits Against California and Virginia Over Gun Laws

The Justice Department filed lawsuits against California and Virginia on June 28, 2026, following a Supreme Court decision that reaffirmed Second Amendment rights in the case of Wolford v. Lopez. The lawsuits challenge California's restrictions on the sale of certain semiautomatic pistols and Virginia's ban on the manufacture and sale of specific firearms classified as assault weapons. California's lawsuit was initiated shortly after new handgun restrictions took effect, with Attorney General Rob Bonta stating that the laws are designed to enhance safety. In response, Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon emphasized the department's commitment to protecting Second Amendment rights. Virginia's legislation, signed by Governor Abigail Spanberger, also faced legal challenges, with state officials defending the law as a measure to reduce gun violence. The lawsuits coincide with the Supreme Court's decision to hear additional Second Amendment cases in the upcoming term.