The 2nd Amendment is a Civil Right | Harmeet Dhillon | SHOT Show 2026

Published on January 21, 2026
Duration: 12:05

Harmeet Dhillon, Assistant US Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division, discusses the DOJ's new Second Amendment section, emphasizing the Second Amendment as a civil right. The discussion covers investigations into CCW permit delays, the NFA, ongoing lawsuits challenging firearms restrictions, and the importance of legal parity with other constitutional rights. Dhillon highlights the urgency of protecting firearms rights at the federal level.

Quick Summary

Harmeet Dhillon, Assistant US Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division, emphasizes the Second Amendment as a fundamental civil right, justifying its placement within the DOJ. The division is addressing issues like CCW permit delays, defending existing laws while encouraging legislative reform for the NFA, and actively litigating against firearms restrictions in multiple states.

Chapters

  1. 00:12Introduction and New DOJ Section
  2. 01:272nd Amendment as a Civil Right
  3. 02:10LA County CCW Investigation
  4. 03:14Defending the NFA
  5. 04:32DOJ Staffing and Recruitment
  6. 05:33Ongoing Litigation
  7. 07:45Constitutional Parity
  8. 08:38Urgency and Future Goals

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the Second Amendment being treated as a civil right?

Treating the Second Amendment as a civil right means it receives the same level of federal protection against infringement as other fundamental rights, like freedom of speech. This justifies its dedicated section within the DOJ's Civil Rights Division and ensures robust legal defense against state and local overreach.

What issues are being addressed regarding CCW permits?

The DOJ is investigating significant delays in CCW permit processing, such as those in Los Angeles County, where delays of three years are being scrutinized. The principle 'a right delayed is a right denied' is being applied, emphasizing timely access to permits.

What is the DOJ's stance on the National Firearms Act (NFA)?

While the DOJ is tasked with defending existing laws, including the NFA, Harmeet Dhillon encourages gun owners to actively lobby Congress for legislative changes and to seek hearings on the NFA's constitutionality. This suggests an openness to reform.

What types of lawsuits are currently being pursued by the DOJ?

The DOJ is involved in lawsuits challenging restrictions on semi-automatic weapons and CCW permits across various jurisdictions, including California, the District of Columbia, the Virgin Islands, Colorado, and New York. These cases aim to clarify and protect Second Amendment rights.

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