Newsom Signs 3D Printer Gun Prevention Law in California
California will require firearm prevention technology in qualifying 3D printers once ASTM International adopts a technical standard, under a law signed by Governor Gavin Newsom.
California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed a law requiring manufacturers to add firearm prevention technology to certain 3D printers sold in the state, according to techradar.com. The requirement will take effect only after ASTM International publishes or adopts an applicable technical standard.
The measure applies to future sales and transfers of qualifying printers. It does not cover machines already sold or owned, and it does not prohibit possession or ordinary operation of 3D printers that lack the firearm prevention capability.
Under the law, the California Department of Justice must begin checking quarterly for the existence of such a standard no later than July 1, 2027. Those checks are to continue through July 1, 2029.
Earlier objections and other states
In June 2026, the Electronic Frontier Foundation said there is no world where the mandated technology actually works as intended. In October 2025, California joined New York as the second US state to establish restrictions specifically concerning firearm production through 3D printing equipment. Colorado and Washington are pursuing comparable measures, although their proposals have not yet become equivalent statewide requirements.
Quick answers
When does California's 3D printer firearm prevention requirement take effect?
It becomes operative only after ASTM International publishes or adopts an applicable technical standard. The California Department of Justice must begin quarterly checks for that standard no later than July 1, 2027, and continue them through July 1, 2029.
Does the law apply to 3D printers already owned in California?
No. It applies to future sales and transfers of qualifying printers, not machines already sold or owned, and it does not prohibit possession or ordinary operation of printers lacking the firearm prevention capability.
Which other states have similar restrictions on 3D-printed firearms?
New York has established restrictions specifically concerning firearm production through 3D printing equipment. Colorado and Washington are pursuing comparable measures, but their proposals have not yet become equivalent statewide requirements.