AR-15 rifles are displayed for sale at a gun show in 2017. (REUTERS/Joshua Roberts)
"Mexico’s complaint, for the reasons given, does not plausibly allege such aiding and abetting," Kagan wrote. "So this suit remains subject to PLCAA’s general bar: An action cannot be brought against a manufacturer if, like Mexico’s, it is founded on a third party’s criminal use of the company’s product."
The justices concluded that the "proximate cause" standard meant the U.S. manufacturers could not be sued when the complex commerce pipeline goes from them to wholesalers, distributors, rogue retail dealers, straw purchasers, smugglers, and then to the Mexican cartels.
The case came before the high court during a delicate time for both countries, politically and diplomatically.
The Trump administration has pushed the Mexican government to better patrol its border to block drugs and migrants from entering the United States, while Mexican officials have demanded the U.S. stop military-style firearms from ending up in Mexico – fueling the very drug crisis both sides seek to end.
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During the proceedings, attorneys for Mexico, which has strict gun sale restrictions, argued the country should be allowed to file a $10 billion civil suit in U.S. courts.
The gun makers countered that their standard business practices were being unfairly targeted and that they had no awareness that their products have been illegally transported into Mexico.
This is a breaking news story. Check back for updates.
Ashley Oliver is a reporter for Fox News Digital and FOX Business, covering the Justice Department and legal affairs. Email story tips to ashley.oliver@fox.com.
https://www.foxnews.com/politics/supreme-court-sides-us-gunmakers-case-centered-mexican-cartel-violence