In an ambitious move, California Governor Gavin Newsom is pushing for a constitutional amendment to tackle the nation’s gun violence head-on.
He argues that changing the Constitution is crucial to break through the political gridlock that has hampered progress. Yet, amidst the deeply divided opinions on gun rights, many wonder if such a bold initiative can truly succeed.
Introducing the 28th Amendment
Facing the rollback of gun safety laws and the expansion of gun rights in various states, Newsom has proposed what could be the 28th Amendment.
His proposal includes major changes like raising the minimum age to buy firearms to 21, banning assault weapons, and mandating universal background checks—a significant shift in national gun policy.
Newsom’s Track Record on Gun Control
Governor Newsom is no stranger to gun control battles. His administration has previously limited ammunition sales and introduced new taxes on firearm purchases, drawing both applause from gun control advocates and fierce opposition from gun rights groups.
His consistent push for stricter regulations showcases his dedication to curbing gun violence.
Ramping Up Support Across the Nation
Since unveiling his proposal, Newsom’s Campaign for Democracy has taken to social media to drum up support.
They’re rallying a force of at least 10,000 volunteers nationwide, aiming to convince state lawmakers to back a constitutional convention to pass this groundbreaking amendment.
Facing Criticism from All Angles
Newsom’s proposal hasn’t escaped criticism, with some suggesting it’s more about boosting his profile for a potential presidential run than making genuine policy changes.
The silence from some national violence prevention groups adds to the skepticism, casting doubt on the amendment’s practicality and political feasibility.
A Long Road Ahead to 2025
Don’t expect quick action on this amendment. The complex and lengthy process required to change the Constitution means significant progress is unlikely before 2025.
Achieving consensus across multiple states involves a daunting level of political coordination and mobilization.
Why a New Amendment? Newsom Explains
Newsom argues that a new amendment is essential to safeguard existing gun laws from being overturned by conservative court rulings.
He aims to establish clear gun protections that respect the Second Amendment yet are robust enough to withstand future legal and political challenges.
Supreme Court Ruling Raises the Stakes
The Supreme Court’s 2022 Bruen decision has intensified the debate, asserting that state gun laws must adhere to America’s historical firearm regulations.
This landmark ruling has led to a surge in legal challenges against state gun policies, illustrating the urgency for the clear, federal standards that Newsom’s amendment seeks to establish.
California’s Gun Laws in the Legal Crosshairs
Several of Newsom’s gun control measures are now under judicial review, including laws that let individuals sue illegal gun manufacturers and ban firearms in public spaces.
These challenges highlight the volatile landscape of gun legislation and the necessity for stronger federal protections.
Advocacy Groups Cautiously Optimistic
Though major groups like March for Our Lives and the Giffords Law Center haven’t officially endorsed the amendment, they express general support for bold actions against gun violence.
“We look forward to continuing to discuss these ideas and actions with Governor Newsom,” a representative from March for Our Lives told the Guardian.
Pushing for a Constitutional Convention
In September 2023, California’s legislature passed a resolution, led by Newsom, calling for a constitutional convention—a significant first step.
But the real challenge lies ahead, as Newsom seeks to win over at least 33 more states to support the convention, a crucial but tough campaign.
Evaluating the Odds of Success
Using a constitutional convention to pass an amendment is an uncharted and rigorous approach; no amendment has yet been ratified this way.
Given the sharp political and cultural divides over gun policy in the U.S., Newsom’s path to success is fraught with challenges, but the push for change is underway.
