In a significant move to regulate firearms in the state of Illinois, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker signed the Protect Illinois Communities Act (Public Act 102-1116) into law a year ago on January 10, 2023. This Act introduces new regulations regarding the sale and distribution of assault weapons, high-capacity magazines, and switches in the state of Illinois, and went into effect that day, upon its signing.
Summary of the Protect Illinois Communities Act
Under this Act, Illinois residents who already possessed assault weapons, high-capacity magazines, and other devices listed prior to the Act’s implementation are required to submit an endorsement affidavit through their Firearm Owner’s Identification Card (FOID) account by January 1, 2024, according to the official Illinois.gov website.
The enforcement of this Act falls to local law enforcement agencies, including the Illinois State Police (ISP). As outlined on Illinois.gov, the ISP will continue to enforce the Firearm Owners Identification Card Act and Article 24 of the Criminal Code of 2012. This is achieved through partnerships with local law enforcement via the Violent Crime Intelligence Task Force, a collaborative effort focused on reducing and preventing illegal possession and use of firearms, firearm-related homicides, and other violent crimes.
The Act’s law enforcement and compliance challenges
However, the Act’s enforcement has met with varied responses. Holden Kurwicki of KSDK News reported on January 4, 2024, that several Illinois sheriffs have declined to enforce the Protect Illinois Communities Act. This development indicates a complex landscape for the Act’s implementation across different counties in the state.
Moreover, compliance appears to be a challenge. As per the Illinois State Police, of the 2.4 million FOID card holders in Illinois, fewer than 30,000 gun owners have registered their guns to comply with the new law. The discretion to charge individuals found in violation of the Act rests with individual State Attorneys, as noted in Kurwicki’s report.
SCOTUS won’t be reviewing a petition to reverse the Act
In related news, Danny Valle of WSIL News reported on January 9, 2024, that the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) declined to review a petition to reverse the Protect Illinois Communities Act. Despite this, the Illinois State Rifle Association is planning to rewrite an appeal by March, with the hope of a decision from the high courts in June. As for now, the law stands as is, however.
The Protect Illinois Communities Act marks a significant shift in the state’s approach to firearms regulation. While its long-term impact remains to be seen, the Act’s immediate effect has been a mix of compliance, enforcement challenges, and legal contestation. As the Concealed Coalition community and especially for anyone living in or traveling to Illinois, it’s crucial to stay informed about these developments, understand their implications, and navigate the changing landscape of firearm ownership and regulation.
Stay up to date with the Protect Illinois Communities Act (and other laws) through training
Staying informed about ever-evolving state laws like the Protect Illinois Communities Act is crucial for responsible gun ownership. Concealed Coalition’s in-person and online CCW permit certification trainings are meticulously designed to keep our students up-to-date with the latest legislative changes and news.
By attending our training, you ensure that you’re not just compliant, but also confident and well-informed. Don’t miss the opportunity to be a part of a community that values safe and knowledgeable firearm handling. Sign up now for Concealed Coalition’s concealed carry training and take a proactive step towards responsible gun ownership.
Sources: Illinois.gov, KSDK News – Holden Kurwicki, WSIL News – Danny Valle
Disclaimer: All of the information included in this article is believed to be accurate to the best of our knowledge as of January 2024. Please refer to the Illinois.gov website for the latest news and regulations regarding the Protect Illinois Communities Act.
