California Governor Gavin Newsom has proposed a 28th Amendment to the United States Constitution aimed at implementing what he considers to be “commonsense” gun safety measures. Newsom asserts that these measures enjoy widespread bipartisan support. His proposal seeks to uphold the Second Amendment while introducing changes such as increasing the minimum age for purchasing firearms from 18 to 21, implementing universal background checks, instituting a waiting period for gun purchases, and banning “assault weapons.” Additionally, the proposed amendment would affirm the authority of Congress, states, and local governments to enact further gun control measures.
To bring about this constitutional amendment, Newsom suggests convening an Article V convention of states rather than relying on Congress, as it currently lacks the necessary support to pass such an amendment. For an amendment to be added to the Constitution, two-thirds of the state legislatures must pass a resolution calling for a convention, after which the convention considers the proposed amendment. Subsequently, the proposed amendment must be ratified by three-fourths of the states. Newsom intends to build grassroots support, lobby state legislatures, and campaign for an Article V convention.
While Newsom’s proposal has drawn support from some California lawmakers, it has also faced opposition from gun rights groups. The National Rifle Association (NRA) criticized Newsom’s proposal, viewing it as an attack on the Second Amendment and suggesting that California’s policies contribute to violence. Gun Owners of America (GOA) expressed concern that Newsom’s proposal aligns with their long-held belief that anti-gun advocates ultimately seek to abolish the Second Amendment. GOA has vowed to strongly oppose the proposed amendment and work towards protecting and restoring the Second Amendment rights of all Americans.
