In a major legal blow to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, the California Rifle & Pistol Association (CRPA) just scored a critical win in federal court. As revealed by Kevin Small on CRPA TV, with commentary from CRPA President Chuck Michel, the lawsuit focused on unlawful delays, denials, and roadblocks in LA County’s concealed carry weapon (CCW) permit process. According to Michel, LA County has been stonewalling applicants, sometimes taking up to two years to process a two-year license.
Delays, Denials, and Fees at the Center of the Case
CRPA’s federal complaint called out five core problems: massive delays, unlawful “suitability” denials, psychological testing requirements, excessive fees (especially in the city of La Verne), and a restriction preventing out-of-state applicants from even applying. The court agreed with most of CRPA’s points and ruled that the association had legal standing to represent its members in this matter.
Judge Rejects LA County’s Excuses
Chuck Michel explained that LA County attempted to dodge the lawsuit by arguing CRPA had no right to sue on behalf of its members. They even claimed that as long as they issued permits to the named plaintiffs, the case should be considered moot. The judge strongly disagreed, affirming CRPA’s associational standing and stating that the issues affect all permit applicants – not just a few individuals.
Associational Standing Becomes a Game Changer
Michel emphasized the importance of the judge affirming associational standing. That means organizations like CRPA, SAF, and GOA can challenge unconstitutional behavior on behalf of their members. As Michel put it, “Just because you give one person a permit doesn’t mean you’re off the hook.” This part of the ruling could set a strong precedent for similar Second Amendment cases across the country.
Out-of-State Applicants Win Big
One of the most impactful parts of the ruling involves out-of-state applicants. Kevin Small and Chuck Michel noted that the California DOJ had been refusing to process CCW applications from non-residents. But the court ordered the state to accept these applications, forcing the DOJ to begin creating a legal framework to comply. According to Michel, this was a direct result of CRPA’s motion for a preliminary injunction.
La Verne and DOJ Back Down – But LA County Fights On
The city of La Verne saw the writing on the wall. After being sued for charging outrageous CCW fees, the city settled the case and dropped out. The California DOJ is also in the process of settling. LA County, however, held its ground and refused to negotiate – until the court’s ruling hit them like a freight train. As Michel bluntly stated, “They just had their butt handed to them.”
Immunity Claims Get Thrown Out
LA County also tried hiding behind legal immunity, claiming that Sheriff Robert Luna couldn’t be sued because he was acting as a “state actor.” The court shut that down. According to CRPA’s legal team, since the sheriff was enforcing a county policy, not a state one, he isn’t immune. This opens the door to civil rights claims under 42 U.S.C. § 1983, which could result in damages and attorney’s fees for affected applicants.
LA’s Excuse? Not Enough Resources
Chuck Michel was clear in his frustration: LA County says they can’t process permits on time because they don’t have the money, staff, or infrastructure. But as Michel argued on CRPA TV, that’s not the public’s problem. “You didn’t design the system, but you still have to follow the law.” He suggested that instead of spending taxpayer money on political pet projects, the county should prioritize constitutional rights.
Other Counties Handle It Just Fine
Riverside, San Bernardino, and Orange County were mentioned by name as examples of jurisdictions that manage their CCW programs efficiently. According to Michel, these counties don’t have the same problems, even with a high number of applicants. LA County, meanwhile, is reportedly sitting on a backlog of around 8,000 applications, many delayed for over a year.
A Bigger Movement: The CCW Reckoning Project
This lawsuit is part of CRPA’s broader effort called the “CCW Reckoning Project.” As Small and Michel explained, it’s a coordinated legal campaign to bring rogue jurisdictions in line with the U.S. Supreme Court’s Bruen decision. And LA County isn’t the last target. Next up on CRPA’s legal hit list are the LAPD and Santa Clara County. Santa Clara, in particular, is being sued for charging over $1,000 per application – a price tag that’s out of reach for many working-class citizens.
Why This Case Matters for Gun Owners Everywhere
This case isn’t just about Los Angeles. As Chuck Michel pointed out, winning here helps establish legal precedent that benefits all Californians – and even gun owners nationwide. The victory could shape future lawsuits by showing that government entities cannot slow-walk or financially block people from exercising their Second Amendment rights.
Bureaucratic Abuse Meets a Legal Reckoning
From a broader view, this case reflects something deeper. What we’re seeing isn’t just legal red tape, it’s active suppression of civil liberties by local governments. The court’s ruling cuts through excuses and smokescreens to remind bureaucrats that constitutional rights are not optional. Delays and excessive fees are not just inconvenient; they’re unconstitutional.
A Rare Win Worth Celebrating
In a state that often seems hostile to gun ownership, victories like this don’t come easy. That’s why it’s worth applauding groups like CRPA, GOA, and SAF for fighting battles most people never see. The fact that one ruling in LA could now benefit applicants statewide is a testament to what smart, focused litigation can achieve. This case wasn’t just a win – it was a statement.
Next Steps: Injunctions, Compliance, and More Lawsuits
Kevin Small closed the episode by asking what comes next. Michel responded that CRPA will seek a permanent injunction forcing LA County to process permits within the legally mandated 120-day window. If the county continues to drag its feet, CRPA is prepared to ask the court to enforce compliance with stiff penalties.
The Tide May Be Turning
The judge’s ruling may mark a turning point in California’s gun rights landscape. As Chuck Michel emphasized, “We’re not going to show a lot of mercy.” With Santa Clara County and the LAPD next in line, and with DOJ already backing down, the dominoes are starting to fall. And that’s good news for law-abiding citizens across the state.
UP NEXT: “Heavily Armed” — See Which States Are The Most Strapped
Image Credit: Survival World
Americans have long debated the role of firearms, but one thing is sure — some states are far more armed than others. See where your state ranks in this new report on firearm ownership across the U.S.
The article LA County Busted in Court for Blocking CCW Permits first appeared on Survival World.
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.
