Glock and Gun Rights Groups File Lawsuits Against Connecticut’s New Cruciform-Trigger Handgun Ban

On Monday, Glock Inc. and several gun-rights organizations filed separate legal actions contesting Connecticut’s upcoming ban on cruciform-trigger semiautomatic handguns, which will become effective on Oct. 1. The law defines “convertible pistols” by their cross-shaped trigger bar, a feature that can be altered with devices to fire fully automatically, and makes their sale or possession a felony. Plaintiffs, including the National Shooting Sports Foundation, Shadow Systems LLC and Blue Trail Range Corporation, argue the design actually reduces accidental discharge and is employed by state troopers, making the ban unnecessary and unconstitutional.

Glock specifically seeks clarification that its Slimline, V Series and Gen6 pistols are not covered by the definition. The state law, signed by Governor Ned Lamont, imposes up to five-year prison terms and fines up to $5,000 for violations. The complaints name Patrick Griffin, chief state’s attorney, among other officials, and contend the statute could set a precedent to prohibit virtually any semiautomatic firearm. Everytown for Gun Safety supports the ban, citing the 2012 Sandy Hook shooting as motivation.