Appeals court rules Californias open carry ban is unconstitutional nationwide

January 3, 2026 • Google News World

A federal appeals court has ruled that California’s open-carry ban is unconstitutional. The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals made the decision in a case involving a challenge to the state’s law, which prohibits individuals from openly carrying firearms in most counties.

The ruling applies to the majority of California counties, with some exceptions. The court’s decision means that individuals are now allowed to openly carry firearms in these areas, as long as they comply with other applicable laws and regulations.

The case was brought by a group of plaintiffs who argued that the open-carry ban was unconstitutional due to its infringement on Second Amendment rights. The court’s ruling is seen as a victory for gun rights advocates and could have implications for similar laws in other states.

The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals has jurisdiction over cases involving federal laws, including those related to firearms. The court’s decision will likely be appealed by the state of California, which may seek to overturn the ruling.

Source: Google News World