The U.S. Supreme Court on June 15, 2026 declined to hear a gun industry challenge to New York's 2021 law allowing civil suits against firearm makers, wholesalers and dealers.
The federal Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (PLCAA), enacted in 2005, generally shields gun manufacturers and sellers from civil liability when their firearms are used in crimes, with limited exceptions.
New York's statute permits lawsuits against industry members who endanger public safety through the sale, manufacturing or marketing of firearms, and the state argues it falls within PLCAA's exceptions.
Supporters of the law argue it provides accountability and a remedy for gun violence victims; critics argue it circumvents federal law and could bankrupt lawful businesses through litigation costs.
At least nine states, including California, New Jersey and Illinois, have enacted similar laws creating civil liability pathways against the firearms industry since 2021.