CRPA and Crossroads of the West Coordinate with Civil Rights Organizations, Small Businesses, and Individuals to File Federal Lawsuit to Stop Ban on Gun Shows at Del Mar Fairgrounds

The California Rifle & Pistol Association (CRPA)and Crossroads of the West Gun Shows (B & L Productions) have once again teamed up with the Second Amendment Foundation (SAF), South Bay Rod & Gun Club, and several small business and individuals to file a federal lawsuit challenging yet another threat to gun shows at the Del Mar Fairgrounds. This time, CRPA is suing Governor Gavin Newsom, Attorney General Rob Bonta, the 22nd District Agricultural Association (Del Mar Fair Board), and other state and county officials to challenge Assembly Bill 893 , which prohibits the sale of firearms and ammunition at the Fairgrounds with the intention and effect of shuttering gun show events altogether.

AB 893 was championed by then-Assemblymember Todd Gloria and gun control groups to stop gun shows on state property when their first attempt to ban the events failed in 2019. That first attempt to stop the gun shows was halted by a federal court which held that the Del Mar Fair Board’s moratorium on gun shows at the state-owned facility unconstitutionally barred the assembly and speech of those who choose to own and possess firearms and discriminated against gun owners. With that federal court order, the Del Mar Fair Board settled, paying over $500,000 to plaintiffs and allowing the gun shows to return to Del Mar.

“We are proud to bring this legal action on behalf of the Second Amendment community of vendors, promoters, advocates, and individual gun enthusiasts. Where the government discriminates and attempts to chill the speech of those who they do not agree with, it is just another example of the cancel culture attitude that is so prevalent with gun control politicians. CRPA will continue to fight for the constitutional rights of the gun culture.” CRPA President and
General Counsel, Chuck Michel.

“Gun shows in California are some of the most regulated businesses in the state,” continued Michel. CRPA has submitted over 35 public records requests to numerous government agencies, and not one of those requests returned any proof of dangerous activity at the Del Mar Gun Show. The Fair Board’s own Director of Security testified in open hearings that there were no security and safety issues at the shows, yet government officials’ decision to discriminate against lawful activity became law. CRPA anticipates additional legal action with the recent passage of SB 264
(affecting Orange County Gun Shows) that is waiting for Governor Newsom’s approval or veto. “AB 893 is clearly a case of chilled speech, prior restraint, and suppression of lawful activity,” Michel said.

CRPA continues to protect your rights just like they have done for over 146 years. Please watch for more updates as this case develops and PLEASE consider donating today to help with this fight.