Sangamon Sun

The Illinois State Police (ISP) is working to provide answers to questions regarding the state's assault weapons ban as the December 31 deadline for registration approaches. Under the Protect Illinois Communities Act (PICA), certain firearms have been deemed unsafe and citizens in possession of these firearms must register them by January 1, 2024, or potentially face criminal penalties.

The law prohibits the sale and possession of over 170 semi-automatic rifles, shotguns, and handguns, as well as magazines with a capacity of over 15 rounds for handguns and over 10 rounds for rifles. The ISP has made it clear that gun owners who fail to register their firearms may face penalties. ISP attorney Suzanne Bond stated, "It will be up to each individual state's attorney in the 102 counties to decide how they will enforce it."

To address concerns and provide clarification on the registration process, ISP conducted a series of public hearings in early November. These hearings were a platform for citizens to express their worries about potentially being deemed criminals. Representative Mike Coffey acknowledged the concerns, stating, "The ISP public hearings provided the department with real-life concerns from constituents who are afraid of being deemed a criminal... I think those who voted for it likely don't understand the magnitude of the rules that apply to law-abiding citizens."

Following the public hearings, ISP provided updates to the General Assembly's Joint Committee on Administrative Rules (JCAR) on November 7. ISP has committed to updating their frequently asked questions (FAQs) and providing written responses to comments received. Written comments on the proposed rules are still being accepted until November 20.

The emergency rules governing the registration process are set to expire on February 11, 2024. Permanent rules must be approved by JCAR. ISP leaders have assured JCAR members that more information and clarification will be provided at the December meeting.

It is worth noting that the assault weapons ban has faced legal challenges in both state and federal courts. While the Illinois Supreme Court upheld the law in August, a federal appeals court recently declined to block enforcement of the ban. A federal court case is still pending before the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals, with the plaintiff gun rights advocacy group seeking an en banc hearing in front of the full court.

As the December 31 deadline approaches, gun owners in Illinois must ensure they are aware of the requirements set forth by PICA and register their firearms accordingly. Failure to do so may result in criminal penalties. The ISP continues to work on finalizing the rules and providing clarity to address the concerns raised by citizens during the public hearings.

To learn more, click on this link: https://repcoffey.com/2023/11/21/isp-still-finalizing-rules-for-registering-firearms/