The Supreme Court is set to consider the Mexican government's effort to hold U.S. gun companies accountable for violence involving trafficked firearms.

Summary

The Supreme Court will hear arguments in a lawsuit brought by Mexico seeking to hold U.S. gun companies liable for firearm trafficking that fuels cartel violence.

Mexico argues that the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (PLCAA) does not shield gunmakers who knowingly facilitate illegal sales.

Lower courts disagreed on whether the “predicate exception” applies, prompting the Supreme Court to step in.

If the ruling favors Mexico, it could open legal avenues for similar suits. Gunmakers contend Mexico’s claims fail due to multiple intervening steps before guns reach cartels.