EXCLUSIVE UPDATE: California Ammo Background Check Law Still in Effect Despite Court Ruling

At Black Basin Outdoors, we’ve just received a direct update from the California Department of Justice (DOJ) clarifying the current legal status of the state’s ammunition background check law — and we’re bringing it to you first.

While the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals recently ruled in Rhode v. Bonta that California’s ammo background check law is unconstitutional, the DOJ has confirmed that the law is still in effect and must continue to be followed by all dealers and buyers — for now.

What We Know (Straight from the Source)

On July 24, a three-judge panel of the Ninth Circuit issued its opinion in Rhode v. Bonta, affirming a lower court ruling that struck down the state’s ammo background check requirements as unconstitutional. However, according to DOJ Advisory #166 — issued July 28 and sent directly to licensed ammunition vendors — that ruling has not yet taken legal effect.

There are a few remaining procedural steps that must occur before the injunction is enforced. Specifically:

• The Ninth Circuit must issue a formal mandate.

• Jurisdiction must be returned to the district court.

• Only then will the ruling trigger a change in how ammunition sales are regulated in California.

Current Status for Buyers and Sellers

In the meantime, California’s ammunition background check requirements remain fully in effect. As a licensed vendor, we are required to continue processing all ammunition purchases under the existing law until the DOJ issues updated guidance.

This means:

• All purchases still require background checks.

• No procedural changes have been made.

• Compliance remains mandatory.

What’s Next?

The court ruling was a major milestone, but it isn’t the final step. Until the Ninth Circuit issues its mandate, the decision is not yet binding. The DOJ has stated that another advisory will be issued when and if the legal status changes.

We’ll be watching this closely and will continue to keep our customers and community informed with real-time updates as we receive them on when the shipping of ammo without an FFL involvement can begin.

Stay Tuned

As one of California’s trusted ammunition providers, we’re committed to helping you navigate this changing legal landscape. If you have questions about how this affects your purchases, don’t hesitate to reach out.

For now — background checks are still the law.