In a significant ruling, Judge Stephen P. McGlynn of the Southern District of Illinois grants a preliminary injunction against the Protect Illinois Communities Act (PICA), which aims to ban certain firearms and high-capacity magazines. The court finds such bans likely violate constitutional rights, emphasizing that over 24 million AR-15 style rifles are legally owned in the U.S., thereby constituting arms “in common use.”
Judge McGlynn’s decision dismisses the argument that specific firearm features, such as pistol grips and flash suppressors, have no legitimate purpose, stating they enhance users’ accuracy and safety. The judge also notes that the Illinois Sheriffs’ Association opposes the ban, signaling discord among local law enforcement regarding its effectiveness, especially in light of its origin following the Highland Park shooting.
Read full story at reason.com
