Illinois Legislators Considering Several New Weapons Bills

 Posted on March 17, 2018 in Uncategorized

In the wake of the death of a high-ranking Chicago police officer who was killed on the streets of the city in broad daylight late last month, Illinois elected officials appear ready to vote on a number of pieces of legislation that would narrow who could own a weapon in the state and the types of modifications one could make to certain firearms.

What Is On the Table

On the heels of both the murder of Chicago Police Commander Paul Bauer and the school shooting in Parkland, Florida, elected officials and members of the public from across the country have come out in favor of enacting new gun legislation that would hopefully put an end to the types of violence witnessed recently. Illinois is no exception, as the state House of Representatives is taking steps to vote on several new initiatives, including:

• The Paul Bauer Act: This Bill, named in honor of the slain Chicago police commander, would ban the sale of body armor and high-capacity gun magazines to everyone except law enforcement, licensed security guards, and members of the military. Bauer’s alleged assailant is said to have used both during the shooting.
• Dealer Licensing: A separate bill would require all gun dealers in Illinois to become licensed with the state. This measure was passed, but later vetoed by Governor Rauner.
• Red Flag: This measure would allow family members or law enforcement to ask a court for permission to temporarily remove the firearms from an owner if that person is deemed to be a danger to themselves or others.
• Modifications: The “bump stock,” which was used by the assailant in the shooting in Las Vegas last year, would be illegal for sale or use in Illinois. This measure also passed.
• Ownership: Illinois lawmakers approved a move to prohibit anyone under the age of 21 from owning an “assault” style rifle.
• Enhanced screening: Another new measure would prevent anyone with a history of mental illness from purchasing a gun.

It remains to be seen if any or all of the new initiatives touted in Illinois will end up being signed into law by Governor Bruce Rauner.

Protect Your Rights and Freedom With Help from an Experienced Illinois Gun and Weapons Lawyer

Illinois has a number of gun laws, and the addition of new restrictions may make owning and using a firearm in this state even more confusing. However, you should never be confused about your Second Amendment Rights, and retaining the counsel of a knowledgeable Will County gun and weapons attorney will ensure your rights are protected. Contact the Law Offices of Jack L. Zaremba, P.C. at 815-740-4025 today and schedule a free consultation to discuss your options when facing a weapons charge in Illinois.