Harmeet Dhillon Lays Down the Law

Published on May 6, 2026
Duration: 17:01

This video features an interview with Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon discussing the Department of Justice's Second Amendment section. Dhillon explains the division's role in challenging state and local firearms restrictions, highlighting a lawsuit against Denver's ban on 'assault weapons' like the AR-15. The discussion emphasizes the importance of legal action to protect Second Amendment rights against what they deem unconstitutional infringements, and touches on the broader efforts of the DOJ in this area.

Quick Summary

The Department of Justice's Second Amendment section is actively challenging state and local firearms restrictions that infringe upon constitutional rights. Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon highlighted a lawsuit against Denver's ban on 'assault weapons,' emphasizing that such bans use politically charged rhetoric and violate federal law, underscoring the DOJ's commitment to defending Second Amendment rights nationwide.

Chapters

  1. 00:01Introduction to Washington Gun Law TV
  2. 00:16Guest Introduction: Harmeet Dhillon
  3. 01:30Role of the Second Amendment Section
  4. 03:53Lawsuit Against Denver's Gun Ban
  5. 06:06Federal Statute Application
  6. 07:03Potential Litigation in Virginia
  7. 09:09Scope of DOJ's Second Amendment Section
  8. 11:20Distinction from NFA Enforcement
  9. 12:17Challenges to Unconstitutional Gun Laws
  10. 14:51Appreciation for DOJ's Work

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary role of the DOJ's Second Amendment section?

The Second Amendment section of the DOJ's Civil Rights Division is dedicated to protecting Second Amendment rights by challenging state and local laws that infringe upon them. They act as plaintiffs in lawsuits against jurisdictions that enact unconstitutional firearms restrictions, ensuring these rights are upheld nationwide.

Why is the DOJ suing the city of Denver?

The Department of Justice has filed a lawsuit against Denver for its ban on 'assault weapons,' which includes popular firearms like the AR-15. The DOJ argues that the term 'assault weapon' is a politically charged label, not a technical one, and that the ban violates federal law and the Second Amendment rights of Denver citizens.

How does the DOJ's Second Amendment section differ from other divisions handling firearms laws?

The Second Amendment section focuses on affirmative litigation against state and local infringements. It does not handle defensive litigation for federal firearms laws like the National Firearms Act, which is managed by other divisions within the DOJ, such as the Civil Division.

What is the process for challenging unconstitutional gun laws?

Challenging unconstitutional gun laws often involves a lengthy legal process. The DOJ first notifies states and localities of violations, giving them a chance to comply. If they refuse, the DOJ initiates lawsuits, similar to how private citizens or gun rights groups have historically challenged such laws.

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