Your NRA-ILA has learned recently that some localities in Illinois are scrambling to consider bans on popular semi-automatic firearms while House Bill 183 awaits consideration of Governor Pat Quinn (D). If enacted into law, House Bill 183 will contain comprehensive preemption of handgun-related local ordinances for anyone with a FOID card and reserves regulation of all laws relating to the concealed carrying of handguns to the state. It also provides protections to those traveling with firearms by providing comprehensive preemption of local ordinances as applied to individuals with a FOID card who are transporting firearms in compliance with all state regulations. Firearms preemption prevents lawful concealed carry licensees and firearm owners from being caught in a web of confusing local ordinances and laws as they go about their daily routines. However, HB 183 contains a provision that allows certain localities up to ten days from the date of enactment to make laws prohibiting so-called “assault weapons” before this legislation prohibits local governments from doing so at a later date.
Quinn has been granted an extension of thirty days by a federal court to consider signing HB 183,leaving ample time for localities to enact anti-gun ordinances.
Some of these localities include:
- Buffalo Grove
- Evanston
- Highland Park
- Orland Park
- Wheeler
While handgun laws will be preempted for those with a FOID card under HB 183, its language of past bans on “assault weapons” could include popular and commonly used handguns and circumvent this firearms preemption. Serious concerns still exist about the potential loopholes and legal issues in House Bill 183.
NRA members are urged to contact your local government officials and respectfully urge them to OPPOSE any ordinance that would restrict the rights of law-abiding Illinois citizens or hinder their right to self-defense. Stay tuned to NRA-ILA for updates.
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