Illinois Senate approves assault weapons ban

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Senate has voted to pass an assault weapons ban six months after the Highland Park tragedy that claimed the lives of seven people and injured dozens more.

The bill will now go back to the state House for another vote. 

Lawmakers were pushing to pass the measure before the new legislature was sworn in.

Gov. JB Pritzker, House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch and Senate President Don Harmon issued a joint statement in support of a sweeping assault weapons ban:

“After continued negotiations between the leaders, stakeholders and advocates, we have reached a deal on one of the strongest assault weapons bans in the country. Gun violence is an epidemic that is plaguing every corner of this state and the people of Illinois are demanding substantive action. With this legislation, we are delivering on the promises Democrats have made and, together, we are making Illinois’ gun laws a model for the nation.” 

The bill, already passed by the state House, now goes through the Senate. It’s passing, in broad terms, would require current owners to file the serial numbers of assault weapons with the state. The bill would also make illegal any future sales of high-capacity magazines, though the exact number is being debated.  Also debated is if owners would keep the magazines they currently have. 

It would also give owners until January 1, 2024 to register their weapons with the state. 

This is a developing story and will be updated.