Assault weapons are now banned from purchase and ownership in Illinois.
Illinois recently joined eight other states in completely banning assault weapons and related accessories. This ban includes semiautomatic rifles, high-capacity magazines, and rapid-fire devices. The “Protect Illinois Communities Act” was signed into law by Governor J.B. Pritzker, leading to this significant change.
Governor Pritzker stated, “For a while now, myself and other leaders in the Illinois General Assembly have been focused on removing the most dangerous weapons from our streets. Today, in fulfillment of our commitment, we enacted one of the toughest assault weapons bans in the country, which I am proud to endorse.”
The bill was largely influenced by the Highland Park shooting in Chicago six months ago, prompting the complete prohibition of purchasing and owning assault weapons within the state of Illinois.
I’m tired of living in a world where a mass shooting needs a title so you know which one we’re referring to.
I just signed the Protect Illinois Communities Act, which immediately bans the sale and distribution of assault weapons, high-capacity magazines, and switches in IL. pic.twitter.com/xvVfrlLSaU
— Governor JB Pritzker (@GovPritzker) January 11, 2023
Governor Pritzker added, “No resident of Illinois, regardless of their location, should live in fear of their loved ones falling victim to mass shootings. Too many have feared being attacked in schools, places of worship, at events, or even in their own yards. This legislation aims to curb the availability of assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, making our state a safer environment for all.”
Despite the ban, the Illinois State Rifle Association representatives have threatened legal action against the state government concerning the passing of this bill.
