Yesterday brought news that many freedom-loving Americans have been waiting years to hear. Federal Judge Cathy Ann Bencivengo ruled in Hoffman v. Bonta that California’s prohibition on non-residents obtaining concealed carry licenses tramples on both the Second and Fourteenth Amendments. This represents a meaningful step forward for families who believe in personal liberty and constitutional rights. This victory reminds us that our fundamental rights should never be subject to the whims of state boundaries or bureaucratic power grabs.
The strength of this victory comes from Judge Bencivengo’s careful application of the Supreme Court’s Bruendecision, which requires gun laws to have roots in our nation’s historical traditions. The case aimed at California Penal Code §§ 26150 and 26155, which forced anyone wanting a standard CCW license to be a state resident, effectively shutting out visitors from other states. The judge recognized what many Americans have long understood—that the Second Amendment protects our right to defend ourselves and our families, and that right does not vanish when we cross state lines. After examining the state’s feeble attempts to find historical justification, she opened the door for non-residents to finally apply for these licenses, delivering a practical victory for millions of law-abiding travelers.
Judge Bencivengo did not mince words in her decision: “The provisions barring non-residents from applying for CCW licenses violate the Constitution.” This powerful statement from her 12-page order, issued yesterday afternoon, sends an unmistakable message that our fundamental rights do not stop at California’s borders. She granted the injunctive relief that gives this ruling real power. However, she acknowledged that the state can still establish reasonable application procedures without perfect parity between residents and non-residents. Her decision proves that judicial wisdom and constitutional clarity can triumph over political agendas.
This ruling represents something bigger than just firearms policy—it is about restoring limits on government power and respecting the choices of individual Americans. Non-residents can now pursue CCW licenses, a right that becomes especially important in areas near schools where carrying firearms is otherwise heavily restricted. Unfortunately, with state officials likely to appeal this decision, even more taxpayer money will probably get thrown into this losing battle. Our elected representatives must realize that these hopeless legal fights destroy public trust. We deserve a government that respects our rights. But do not hold your breath!
Despite the resistance from California’s political establishment, the Constitution still reigns supreme here, just as it does in every corner of our great nation. This victory ensures that visitors and longtime residents can exercise the rights our founders guaranteed to all Americans—a principle worth defending against the costly machinery of government overregulation.
Here is a link to the ruling.
Also, a shout out to the Firearms Policy Coalition for the heads up, and great work!
