In a landmark decision that has significantly impacted ammunition sales in Fresno and across California, U.S. District Judge Roger Benitez ruled against the state’s requirement for background checks on ammunition purchases. This ruling, coming from the Southern District of California, declared the law unconstitutional, citing a violation of the Second Amendment’s right to bear arms.
Judge Benitez’s decision marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing debate over gun control and ammunition regulation in California. The judge pointed out that the background check requirement treated all citizens as if they had no right to buy ammunition, a stance that he argued lacked historical precedent and was an outlier our ancestors would not have accepted.
The ruling was the result of a case brought forward by prominent figures including Olympic gold medalist Kim Rhode and the California Rifle & Pistol Association. Their victory was seen as a significant win for Second Amendment advocates, with the judge’s decision echoing the sentiments of many gun owners and hunters who have long criticized the background check law for its impracticality and the obstacles it created for law-abiding citizens.