Cam Edwards, host of Bearing Arms’ Cam & Co, opened the latest episode by reporting what he called “a solid win” for gun owners in Los Angeles County. Speaking with Second Amendment Foundation (SAF) founder Alan Gottlieb, Edwards explained that a federal judge rejected the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s attempt to dismiss a lawsuit over concealed carry permit delays.
According to Edwards, the court’s decision means the lawsuit, known as CRPA v. LASD, can now move forward to a full hearing on the merits.
Alan Gottlieb: “A Major Step Toward Accountability”
Alan Gottlieb told Edwards that the case is a direct challenge to how Los Angeles County has been handling concealed carry permits. “Some applicants have been waiting over a year just to get a response,” Gottlieb said. “That’s a violation of rights.”
Gottlieb pointed out that this ruling doesn’t resolve everything yet, but it prevents the sheriff’s department from dodging responsibility and ensures that the case continues in court.
Delays That Stretch Beyond a Year
Edwards highlighted what he called “unacceptable timelines.” He said that in many cases, it takes over six months just to begin processing applications. In Los Angeles city, he noted, some applicants are being told 18 to 22 months is standard.
“Those numbers are stunning,” Edwards said. “And these delays are being used to make it nearly impossible for law-abiding people to exercise a fundamental right.”
Why This Lawsuit Matters for All Californians
During the interview, Edwards emphasized that the lawsuit is much larger than a few named plaintiffs. Gottlieb explained that the sheriff’s department wanted the court to limit any relief to only the people named in the suit.
“The judge said no,” Gottlieb explained. “This ruling covers all SAF members. That means thousands of Californians stand to benefit from the outcome.”
Non-Residents Also Impacted
Gottlieb reminded viewers that the lawsuit also affects travelers and non-residents. Before the legal challenge, California had no mechanism for issuing permits to non-residents and did not honor out-of-state permits.
“Thanks to this litigation,” Gottlieb said, “people who live outside California but pass through Los Angeles, like at LAX, can now apply. That’s a huge step forward.”
A Pattern of Obstruction
Both Edwards and Gottlieb agreed that these delays are not just mistakes – they’re deliberate. Edwards described how the LAPD even refuses to start the processing clock until months after an application is filed.
“This isn’t just incompetence,” Edwards said. “This is a tactic to discourage people from applying.” Gottlieb agreed, calling it “a direct attack on constitutional rights under the guise of bureaucracy.”
Bruen Decision Changes the Landscape
Gottlieb credited the Supreme Court’s 2022 Bruen decision for creating the framework for this lawsuit. “The Court said that if states are going to issue permits, they must be shall-issue,” Gottlieb said. “They can’t drag their feet forever. A right delayed is a right denied.”
Edwards echoed that sentiment, saying the Bruen standard makes clear that delays that last for years amount to a de facto denial of the right to carry.
Budget Excuses Don’t Fly
When officials claim they don’t have enough staff to process permits, Gottlieb isn’t impressed. “That’s not an excuse,” he said. “They find money for everything else. They simply don’t want to issue permits.”
Edwards pointed out that California law already sets a 120-day deadline for issuing or denying applications. “They’re blowing right past that deadline,” Edwards said.
Real Consequences for Ordinary People
Edwards gave an example of a Coast Guard member who applied for a permit in Los Angeles but was arrested for carrying while waiting for approval. “This guy tried to follow the law,” Edwards said. “Instead, the system turned him into a criminal because of the delay.”
Gottlieb called the situation a “Catch-22” created by the state’s own inaction.
What Happens Next?
According to Gottlieb, the next step is to move forward with the case in court. He believes that ultimately, Los Angeles County will have no choice but to process applications in a timely manner, not only for SAF members but for everyone.
“We will hold their feet to the fire,” Gottlieb promised. “If they keep dragging their feet, they’ll be back in court again and again.”
A Warning Shot to Other Counties
This lawsuit sends a strong message. It’s not just about Los Angeles County. As Edwards noted, “Other jurisdictions in California, and across the country, are watching this. If they think they can slow-walk applications without consequences, this case is proving otherwise.”
The legal victory, while procedural, is a warning shot to local governments that deliberately undermine the right to carry by stalling.
Looking Ahead to Broader Change
Both Edwards and Gottlieb closed the segment on an optimistic note. Gottlieb predicted that this case would result in faster, more accountable permit systems. “Once this case is resolved,” Gottlieb said, “they will no longer be able to ignore applications for a year or more. And frankly, that’s going to improve the situation statewide.”
Edwards agreed, thanking the Second Amendment Foundation for taking on what he called “a systemic abuse of power” in Los Angeles.
A former park ranger and wildlife conservationist, Lisa’s passion for survival started with her deep connection to nature. Raised on a small farm in northern Wisconsin, she learned how to grow her own food, raise livestock, and live off the land. Lisa is our dedicated Second Amendment news writer and also focuses on homesteading, natural remedies, and survival strategies. Lisa aims to help others live more sustainably and prepare for the unexpected.
