Rapid guns banned in Illinois by Supreme Court. The court ruled on Friday that the Protect Our Communities Act complies with equal protection standards.
Rep. Dan Caulkins and other Macon County gun owners lost their Second Amendment arguments after the Supreme Court’s 4-3 judgment. This hinders Supreme Court review. Caulkins’ lawyer disagrees.
Southern IL federal appeals courts are probing Second Amendment claims.
50-cal firearms, components, and fast-firing systems are banned. Shotguns have nine shots, pistols 14. The AR-15, estimated to be in 25 million US homes by 2021, according to Georgetown University, is highly impacted.
Things will change. Firearm owners can keep them until January 10, 2024, if they register with the state police before January 1. Seven types of professionals can carry these guns. Police, military, and security guards are examples.
Dan Caulkins believes the Second Amendment protects claimants and FOID holders. He said some could break the rule. Justice Rochford said “grandfathered” gun owners had no special rights. She noted that a FOID card doesn’t ensure job responsibility or training.
Rochford said, “The equal protection clause ensures equal treatment for people in similar situations unless the government has a valid reason for treating them differently.” She suggested the Legislature can divide groups if it helps the law.
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Jerrold Stocks, Caulkins’ lawyer, anticipates further legal action, possibly including a Supreme Court appeal.
J.B. Pritzker, Indiana’s Dem governor, signed the Protect Our Communities Act in Jan. The 2022 Highland Park shooting killed seven and injured others. Gun rights advocates oppose the bill, and sheriffs worry about its implementation.
Pritzker called the bill “commonsense gun reform” to prevent mass shootings. He advised caution at demos, work, shopping, parks, and churches.
Justice O’Brien found the court’s finding erroneous due to biased exceptions in the law. The court’s two Republican justices, Lisa Holder White and David Overstreet ruled the law illegal due to the Legislature’s failure to follow constitutional lawmaking norms. Holder White stressed the Constitution’s significance.
Gun control and Second Amendment rights are still debated and have been legally contested
Our Reader’s Queries
What guns are banned in Illinois now?
The Illinois State Police have implemented a ban on semi-automatic weapons, including 50-caliber guns, attachments, and rapid-firing devices. To comply with the new regulations, rifles are limited to 10 rounds, while handguns are limited to 15 rounds. Owners of previously purchased guns falling under this category must register them with the Illinois State Police by January 1st.
What is the new gun law in Illinois 2023?
Starting from 1st January, the Protect Illinois Communities Act will be enforced. This law, signed by Governor JB Pritzker in January 2023, prohibits the sale of various types of semiautomatic assault weapons, such as AK-47s and AR-15 rifles, as well as magazines that hold more than 10 rounds for rifles and 15 rounds for handguns. This measure aims to enhance public safety and reduce the risk of gun violence in Illinois.
What are the new laws for 2024 in Illinois?
Starting from January 1, 2024, Illinois will have a set of new laws in effect. These laws include an increase in the minimum wage under PA 101-0001, the Illinois Paid Leave for All Workers Act under 820 ILCS 192, and the banning of book bans under HB 2789. Additionally, HB 1541 mandates that gas and electric services must be provided even during extreme weather conditions. HB 2245 aims to reduce car thefts and carjackings, while HB 2123 addresses digital forgeries. These new laws will have a significant impact on the lives of Illinois residents and businesses.
What is the assault weapons ban in 2023?
The proposed legislation criminalizes the import, sale, manufacture, transfer, or possession of semiautomatic assault weapons (SAWs) and large capacity ammunition feeding devices (LCAFDs). Anyone found guilty of these offenses will face legal consequences.