Illinois Assault Weapons Ban Remains in Effect

A federal appeals court in Chicago has ruled to uphold Illinois' assault weapons ban while the state contests a recent ruling that deemed the law unconstitutional. This decision follows U.S. District Judge Stephen McGlynn's injunction against the ban, which he issued after finding it violated the Second Amendment. The Illinois Attorney General's office is actively defending the law, which was enacted in response to the Highland Park shooting in 2022. The 7th Circuit Court's stay will remain in effect as litigation continues, with several gun rights groups opposing the ban. The ruling highlights ongoing legal battles over gun control in the state, as similar challenges are being pursued in other jurisdictions. Officials, including Governor JB Pritzker and Attorney General Kwame Raoul, assert the law is critical for public safety.