Steve Stafstrom Quoted in CT News Junkie Article on Supreme Court Gun Ruling

Pullman & Comley Litigation attorney and State Rep. Steve Stafstrom was recently quoted in the CT News Junkie article, “Blumenthal’s Bill, Supreme Court Ruling Highlight Push to Hold Gun Industry Liable.” The article covers the U.S. Supreme Court’s recent unanimous decision in a case involving Smith & Wesson and other firearm manufacturers, as well as Connecticut legislators' efforts to increase industry accountability. The Court ruled that the companies could not be held liable in a civil lawsuit filed by the Mexican government, which alleged that the manufacturers aided unlawful gun sales linked to drug cartels. This decision affirms the legal protections provided under the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (PLCAA), a federal law shielding gun manufacturers from most civil liability.

The ruling highlights the challenges plaintiffs face when seeking to hold firearm manufacturers accountable through civil litigation. Connecticut has taken steps to increase firearm industry accountability through Public Act No. 25-43, which allows civil suits against companies that fail to implement reasonable controls to prevent illegal sales. Steve, who co-sponsored the legislation said, “If the product is inherently dangerous, it should be treated under our normal tort system.”

To read the full article, please visit the CT News Junkie website.