Utah Passes New Protections Against Gun Control Lawsuits

New law blocks attempts to circumvent federal gun liability law

Apr. 13, 2026 at 12:53am

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A serene, photorealistic painting of a handgun resting on a wooden table, with warm light and deep shadows creating a contemplative, cinematic mood.The new Utah law aims to protect the state's firearm industry from being targeted by frivolous lawsuits brought by gun control advocates.Salt Lake City Today

Utah has become the first state to pass new protections for the firearm and ammunition industry against lawsuits brought by gun control advocates. Governor Spencer Cox signed House Bill 214 into law, which prevents foreign nationals and political subdivisions from launching 'junk lawsuits' and creating civil liabilities for manufacturers, sellers, and trade organizations.

Why it matters

This new law in Utah aims to stop gun control advocates from using the courts to enact gun control measures that have been rejected by the legislature. It builds on the federal Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (PLCAA) by adding additional protections against the so-called 'predicate exception' that activists have tried to use to circumvent the PLCAA.

The details

House Bill 214 specifically addresses the 'predicate exception' and adds PLCAA-like protections to firearm accessories and products intended to be used with firearms and ammunition. The new law blocks lawsuits that attempt to hold firearm and ammunition industry companies liable for the criminal actions of third parties who misuse their legal, lawfully sold, non-defective products.

  • On April 13, 2026, Utah Governor Spencer Cox signed House Bill 214 into law.

The players

Spencer Cox

The Governor of Utah who signed House Bill 214 into law.

NSSF

The Firearm Industry Trade Association that supported and praised the passage of House Bill 214 in Utah.

Nephi Cole

The Director of Government Relations - State Affairs at NSSF who was present for the bill signing ceremony.

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What they’re saying

“Utah is leading the nation in adding protections for members of the firearm and ammunition industry from activists who engage in lawfare to enact gun control measures through frivolous litigation.”

— Nephi Cole, Director, Government Relations – State Affairs, NSSF

What’s next

The new law in Utah is expected to serve as a model for other states looking to provide stronger protections for the firearms industry against liability lawsuits brought by gun control advocates.

The takeaway

This new law in Utah represents a significant victory for the firearms industry in the ongoing battle against attempts to use the courts to enact gun control policies that have been rejected by the legislative process. It demonstrates that states are willing to take proactive steps to shield the industry from 'lawfare' tactics.