Weekly 2A Wrap Up - April 11, 2025

National Second Amendment News (Week of April 4–11, 2025)

1. Colorado Governor Signs Sweeping Semi-Automatic Ban

SB25-003, signed by Governor Jared Polis, prohibits the sale and transfer of most semi-automatic rifles and shotguns with detachable magazines.

Takes effect January 2026.

It mandates background checks, training requirements, and introduces an age limit.

The NSSF and other 2A advocates strongly oppose the law, anticipating constitutional challenges.

2. ATF "Zero-Tolerance" Policy Walked Back

The ATF’s controversial “zero-tolerance” revocation policy for Federal Firearms Licensees (FFLs) has reportedly been modified, following intense pressure from industry and Congress.

The original policy led to FFL revocations for paperwork errors. New guidance appears to provide more flexibility and due process for gun dealers.

This is seen as a significant victory for gun retailers and rights advocates.

3. House Judiciary Advances Firearm Preemption Protection Act

The House Judiciary Committee advanced the Firearm Industry Nondiscrimination (FIND) Act and Protecting the Right to Keep and Bear Arms Act.

These aim to protect lawful firearms businesses from being cut off by financial services and to reinforce Second Amendment protections across federal jurisdiction.

4. Supreme Court Declines Review of New York Concealed Carry Law

The Court declined to hear a challenge to New York's “Concealed Carry Improvement Act,” which adds strict licensing requirements and bans carry in most public areas.

This leaves lower court decisions in place and continues to restrict carry rights in New York.

Gun rights groups expressed frustration and concern over inconsistent application of Bruen precedent.

5. Ninth Circuit Upholds California’s Large-Capacity Magazine Ban

In a major 2A decision, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals upheld California’s ban on magazines over 10 rounds in Duncan v. Bonta.

This ruling is expected to be appealed again, potentially reaching the Supreme Court.

Gun rights advocates argue it contradicts the Supreme Court's standard set in Bruen.

State-Level Second Amendment Developments

Arizona

Pro-gun legislation is moving forward in the Arizona legislature, including:

Strengthening state preemption laws, limiting cities and counties from enacting their own gun restrictions.

Bills to limit enforcement of federal gun control laws seen as unconstitutional.

Some proposals include repealing restrictions on certain NFA-regulated items (e.g., suppressors and short-barreled rifles).

California

After the Duncan decision, California officials are pushing for further restrictions, including:

More waiting period expansions.

New proposed taxes on gun and ammo sales.

Washington

New legislation is being considered to restrict open carry in more public spaces, building on last year's laws against open carry at demonstrations and state capitols.

Illinois

Legal challenges continue against the “assault weapon” and magazine bans passed in 2023.

Multiple counties and sheriffs are refusing to enforce the law.

State Supreme Court arguments are expected in late spring.

Oregon