Supreme Court Blocks Mexico's Gunmaker Lawsuit

The U.S. Supreme Court unanimously blocked Mexico’s $10 billion lawsuit against American gun manufacturers, ruling that the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (PLCAA) shields the companies from liability for crimes committed with their products. The Court overturned a lower court decision that had allowed the case to proceed, firmly reaffirming the broad legal protections for gun manufacturers and distributors under PLCAA. Justice Elena Kagan, writing for the unanimous Court, stated that Mexico failed to plausibly allege that the gunmakers knowingly aided unlawful firearm sales to Mexican drug cartels. Mexico had argued its lawsuit fit a statutory exception for knowing violations, but the justices rejected this interpretation as overly broad and inconsistent with congressional intent. The decision prevents foreign governments from holding U.S. gunmakers liable for crimes committed by third parties with their products. The ruling underscores ongoing tensions regarding gun violence, cross-border trafficking, and U.S.-Mexico relations.