On Friday, a federal judge ruled that Illinois’ ban on assault weapons is unconstitutional, as reported by multiple sources. Despite this, Governor J.B. Pritzker has committed to appealing the decision that nullified the ban, which was implemented following a 2022 mass shooting that resulted in seven deaths and numerous injuries in a Chicago suburb.
U.S. District Judge Stephen P. McGlynn stated that the ban on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines infringes upon the Second Amendment right to bear arms, according to the Associated Press. McGlynn’s order will not be effective for 30 days.
Governor Pritzker enacted the ban in January 2023, which prohibited the sale of assault weapons such as the AR-15, along with high-capacity magazines, switches, and other attachments. This legislation was introduced approximately six months after the tragic Highland Park shooting in 2022.
The Governor’s office has announced plans to appeal the ruling within the next 30 days, emphasizing in a statement that the ban was designed to protect Illinois residents from the pervasive threat of gun violence in places where they should feel safe, as reported by NBC Chicago.
The Highland Park shooting, which was a catalyst for the ban, resulted in seven fatalities and injuries to around 48 individuals, carried out by a shooter using a Smith & Wesson semi-automatic rifle.