Judge tosses Illinois ban on semiautomatic weapons, governor pledges swift appeal
SUMMARY
A federal judge overturned Illinois’ ban on semiautomatic weapons, citing recent Supreme Court rulings that emphasize a strict interpretation of the Second Amendment. Judge Stephen P. McGlynn, appointed by Donald Trump, ruled that the law infringes on citizens' rights to bear arms, noting that rights should not be limited by government discretion. The Protect Illinois Communities Act, signed in 2023 by Governor J.B. Pritzker, restricts AR-15 rifles, large-capacity magazines, and similar weapons. It was introduced following the 2022 mass shooting at a Highland Park parade. McGlynn’s decision will be on hold for 30 days, allowing time for an appeal. Pritzker and Attorney General Kwame Raoul plan a swift appeal, arguing that the ban is essential for public safety. Meanwhile, the Illinois State Rifle Association praised the ruling, calling the ban unconstitutional and a threat to the rights of law-abiding firearm owners.
