Hageman Introduces Bill to Strengthen Gunmaker Protections from Frivolous Lawsuits

Washington DC – Today, Rep. Hageman introduced the PLCAA Federal Jurisdiction Act which would strengthen the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act’s (PLCAA) protections for the firearm industry against abusive litigation intended to undermine the Second Amendment. The bill amends the PLCAA to allow firearm industry defendants to remove a case against them to federal court to ensure a more consistent application of procedural rules and litigation timelines.

Rep. Hageman stated, “Activist groups have long ago learned the technique of using the courts to block what they don’t like. By filing frivolous lawsuits in Democrat-run state courts, the hope of these activists is to bankrupt gun manufacturers. By amending the PLCAA so that defendants can remove a case to the federal courts, these cases can be heard and adjudicated faster and with less volatility. Our 2^nd Amendment is under constant attack by gun control fanatics – we must fight to protect that right in every way possible.

“I am thankful for the support of bill cosponsors, Reps. Clyde (GA), Fry (SC), Gosar (AZ), McClain (MI), Ogles (TN), and Weber (TX), and I look forward to seeing this legislation become law.”

The Firearms Regulatory Accountability Coalition stated, “This bill furthers the PLCAA’s goals by curbing abusive litigation tactics such as forum shopping and weaponized use of the courts by plaintiffs. It extends to all defendants who assert a qualified defense under the PLCAA the right to remove their case to federal court. This provides consistent access to federal court rules and familiar federal dismissal procedures, for quick resolution based on the federal statutory defense.”