South Dakota seeking to overturn California ban on firearm magazines

States lining up on opposite sides of debate as case goes to appeals court

Photo by Will Porada on Unsplash

South Dakota has joined two dozen other states in opposing a law in California that bans firearm magazines that hold more than 10 rounds of ammunition.

Meanwhile, 19 other states are supporting the law, which shows how starkly gun laws are viewed in states across the country.

The two sides have submitted legal briefs in a case playing out at the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. The California Rifle & Pistol Association challenged the law, which restricts the sale, possession and transfer of magazines that carry more than 10 rounds of ammunition. A U.S. district court judge struck down the law in September, basing his decision on a 2022 U.S. Supreme Court decision.

In October, the full Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals voted 7-4 to stay the district court ruling – meaning the law is still in effect – while the case is on appeal.

NEWS: Senator petitions S.D. Supreme Court to have full Senate privileges restored