What Assault Weapons Ban Could Mean For Illinois Gun Owners

A proposed law in the state of Illinois (House Bill 5471) would make changes to current laws related to firearms and gun violence. If passed, it would give more responsibilities to the Illinois State Police to investigate illegal firearms trafficking, as well as human trafficking and illegal drug trafficking.

But wait, there's more.

This bill also allows the State Police division to coordinate and strategy on firearms-related intelligence and interdiction. It also changes the Firearm Owners Identification Card Act, where the authorities have the power to issue firearms restraining orders for a period of up to 1 year and can be renewed for an additional year, which would allow them to temporarily take firearms from individuals deemed to be a risk to themselves or others. The bill also includes penalties for violating these laws.

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If the proposed assault weapons ban in Illinois is passed, it would mean significant changes for gun owners in the state. The bill would make it illegal for residents to possess certain types of firearms, including assault weapons and .50 caliber rifles and cartridges, as of January 1, 2024. This would mean that gun owners in possession of these types of firearms would be required to either surrender them to authorities or transfer them out of state.

When would authorities be able to legally confiscate firearms?

The bill would also allow for the issuance of plenary firearms restraining orders, which would allow authorities to temporarily confiscate firearms from individuals deemed to be a risk to themselves or others. This would allow authorities to remove firearms from individuals who may pose a danger to themselves or others, even if they have not been charged with a crime.

It's also illegal to manufacture, deliver, sell, purchase, or cause to be manufactured, delivered, sold, or purchased a large-capacity ammunition feeding device as per the proposed bill. Violation of this law would be punishable by fines and/or imprisonment.

The bill also includes a provision known as a "severability clause", which ensures that if any part of the bill is found to be unconstitutional, the remaining portions of the bill will still be in effect.

Significant Impact For Gun Owners?

Overall, if this bill passes, it would mean stricter regulations on firearms ownership and possession in Illinois, and would likely have a significant impact on gun owners in the state. It's important to note that the bill is still in the process and hasn't been passed yet and also it's important to fully understand the law and its implications before taking any actions. If you have any questions or concerns about the proposed ban, you should speak with an attorney who is knowledgeable about firearms law.

You can read the full bill here.