MESSAGE FROM TERRA COSTA HOWARD – RE FAQ ABOUT ASSAULT WEAPONS BAN
I am so proud that Illinois has passed the Protect Illinois Communities Act, a new gun safety law that will help keep assault weapons away from dangerous people.
This new law, HB 5471, immediately bans the sale and distribution of assault weapons, high-capacity magazines, and switches, which convert legal handguns into assault weapons. It also requires people who currently own these types of deadly firearms to register their ownership.
I know that a number of people have questions about this new law and what it means for them. In response, the Illinois State Police has created a Frequently Asked Questions page, which is a helpful resource that details how this new law will be implemented.
As you might expect, I have received a number of comments and questions about this new law. The vast majority of constituents in our communities have expressed support for this sensible legislation to limit access to deadly weapons.
So I am deeply troubled by the DuPage County Sheriff’s public pronouncement that he will not enforce the Protect Illinois Communities Act. This past week, I joined 16 fellow legislators who represent DuPage communities in signing an open letter expressing our concern that the sheriff is violating his oath of office by refusing to follow state law that has been passed by the General Assembly and signed by the Governor.
As an attorney, I know that law enforcement officers don’t get to pick and choose which laws to enforce – especially a law like this one, which has the power to save lives and prevent tragedies. I am hopeful that he will reconsider his position and fulfill his oath by enforcing our laws, regardless of his personal opinions.
As we move forward, I’ll keep you posted on the continuing work that the General Assembly is doing in partnership with local advocates to reduce gun violence in Illinois and keep everyone safer.