Illinois Assault Weapons Ban Faces Seventh Circuit Challenge

The Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals recently heard oral arguments challenging Illinois's Protect Illinois Communities Act, a law banning assault weapons like the AR-15 and limiting magazine capacities. Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon, representing the Justice Department, argued that the law violates the Second Amendment, emphasizing that firearms in common civilian use, such as the AR-15, are constitutionally protected. Illinois Deputy Solicitor General Sarah Hunger defended the law, asserting that civilian AR-15s differ from military firearms and highlighting the state's interest in public safety amid mass shootings. Judges on the panel, including Frank Easterbrook and Michael Brennan, questioned both sides rigorously, with some expressing skepticism about the law's justification and the standard of review to apply. The case follows a lower court ruling that found the law unconstitutional, though the appellate panel must consider whether to defer to those factual findings or conduct de novo review. The outcome remains uncertain, but the hearing underscores the Justice Department's increased involvement in challenging state-level firearm regulations under the current administration.