Assembly Bill to Allow Californians to Hold Gun Manufacturers Accountable Heads to Governor

(SACRAMENTO,CA) – Gun violence continues to threaten and destroy communities across California and throughout the United States. In an effort to hold gun manufacturers accountable for the damage their products cause, Assemblymembers Chris Ward, Phil  Ting and Mike Gipson introduced Assembly Bill 1594. Today, the bill passed the Assembly Floor and now heads to Governor Gavin Newsom for his signature. 

“The recent tragedies in Uvalde, Texas and here in Sacramento are a reminder that the scourge of gun violence is one that we can no longer ignore,” said Assemblymember Chris Ward (D-San Diego). “California is ready to act now to save lives. The reckless gun industry remains unchecked for its role in helping to perpetuate this violence, and it’s time that changes.”

Assembly Bill 1594 would allow individuals, local governments and the California Attorney General to sue gun manufacturers for the harm caused from their products –– the same liability manufacturers in other industries are expected to meet for their products. The bill would authorize a court that determines that a firearm industry has engaged in the prohibited conduct to award various relief, including injunctive relief, damages and attorney’s fees and costs.

“Given last week’s Bruen decision, we must make our communities safer with stronger gun legislation,” said Assemblymember Phil Ting (D-San Francisco). “The firearms industry has enjoyed federal immunity from civil lawsuits for far too long, providing them no incentive for them to follow our laws. Hitting their bottom line may finally compel them to take every step possible to prevent illegal sales and theft to reduce gun violence. I appreciate the state Legislature acting quickly to approve AB 1594 in the last month.”