Supreme Court to Review $10 Billion Lawsuit by Mexico Against U.S. Gun Makers
The Supreme Court announced its intention to consider a $10 billion lawsuit initiated by Mexico against prominent U.S. gun manufacturers. The lawsuit alleges that these manufacturers’ business practices have significantly contributed to the violence in Mexico.
Originally dismissed due to existing legal protections for the firearm industry, the lawsuit was revived by the 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. The gun makers, including well-known names such as Smith & Wesson, Beretta, Colt, and Glock, have petitioned the Supreme Court to overturn the appeals court decision, arguing their compliance with lawful practices and questioning the case’s relevance in U.S. courts.
Mexico’s argument centers on the assertion that the companies were aware their firearms were being trafficked into Mexico and chose to profit from this market. The Mexican government estimates that 70% of the weapons smuggled into the country originate from the United States.
In a separate ruling, U.S. District Judge F. Dennis Saylor in Boston dismissed the case against six out of the eight companies, citing insufficient evidence linking their activities in Massachusetts to the damage caused by firearms in Mexico. Despite this dismissal, Mexico retains the possibility of appealing, with some claims still active. The firearm manufacturers express concern that the 1st Circuit’s decision, if maintained, could impose a lasting impact on the industry.
The case, originally filed in 2021, was initially thrown out by a district court owing to legal safeguards that protect gun manufacturers from liability for damages resulting from criminal use of their products. However, the appellate court identified an exception to this rule, allowing the case to proceed.
As the Supreme Court prepares to review the case, the gun manufacturers assert that the lawsuit is an attempt by Mexico to pressure them into adopting gun control measures. Meanwhile, AP correspondent Haya Panjwani has reported on the developments as the Supreme Court considers its involvement in this high-stakes legal battle.
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