In a landmark ruling for gun rights advocates, a federal judge declared Illinois’ assault weapons ban unconstitutional.

U.S. District Judge Stephen McGlynn blocked enforcement of the Illinois Community Protection Act (PICA), a law signed into law earlier this year by Democratic Gov. JB Pritzker.

The decision came after the plaintiffs argued that the ban violated their Second Amendment rights.

In his ruling, Judge McGlynn emphasized the importance of self-defense, stating, “The government cannot deprive law-abiding citizens of their guaranteed right to self-defense as a means of crime.”

The decision marks a significant victory for Second Amendment advocates, many of whom have long argued against restrictive gun control measures they believe threaten individual liberties.

The Illinois law barred more than 29,000 AR-15 owners from owning semi-automatic firearms, defining them as “assault weapons.”

The AR-15, a common firearm among American gun owners, is often used for both self-defense and recreational purposes.

National surveys indicate that approximately 16 million Americans own an AR-15, further highlighting the popularity of this category of weapon.

Judge McGlynn’s ruling is expected to spark an appeal from state officials amid ongoing debates over gun control and public safety.

Governor Pritzker has previously defended PICA as necessary legislation aimed at reducing gun violence and preventing tragedies like school shootings.

Meanwhile, the National Rifle Association (NRA), which supported the plaintiffs in the case, hailed the judge’s decision as a triumph for the rights of gun owners and the constitutional protections afforded them.

As the battle for gun rights continues, this ruling not only strengthens the Second Amendment, but also serves as a reminder of the divided landscape surrounding gun laws in America today.

Sources:
slaynews.com
political.eu
washingtonexaminer.com