How Many Guns Can You Buy in a Month in Illinois?
Illinois is a state with strict gun control laws, and purchasing firearms in the state can be a complex process. While federal law allows individuals to purchase firearms, Illinois state law imposes additional restrictions on gun ownership. In this article, we will explore how many guns you can buy in a month in Illinois and what factors to consider when purchasing firearms in the state.
Federal Gun Laws
Before we dive into Illinois state law, it’s essential to understand federal gun laws. Under federal law, there is no limit on the number of firearms an individual can purchase in a month. However, federal law does require background checks for all firearms purchases through federally licensed firearms dealers (FFLs). Additionally, federal law prohibits the sale of certain types of firearms, such as machine guns, short-barreled shotguns, and certain semiautomatic rifles, to individuals who have not been convicted of a felony or who have been deemed mentally incompetent.
Illinois State Gun Laws
Illinois state law, on the other hand, imposes stricter restrictions on gun ownership. The Illinois Firearms Owner Identification (FOID) Card Act, passed in 2013, requires individuals to obtain a FOID card to possess or purchase firearms in the state. To obtain a FOID card, applicants must:
- Be 21 years old (18 years old for military personnel and veterans)
- Not have been convicted of a felony or certain misdemeanor crimes
- Not be a fugitive from justice
- Not be a drug addict or habitual user of drugs
- Not be mentally incapacitated
Additionally, Illinois state law requires background checks for all firearms purchases through FFLs. However, unlike federal law, Illinois law allows private sales of firearms without a background check.
Illinois State Statutes
Illinois state statute 720 ILCS 5/24-1(a) states that it is unlawful for any person to purchase or obtain more than one firearm in any 30-day period, unless the person has first obtained a permit from the local law enforcement agency or the Illinois State Police. This permit is typically granted for legitimate purposes, such as hunting or target shooting.
Concealed Carry Permits
In 2013, Illinois became the last state in the country to allow concealed carry permits. However, the state’s concealed carry law is still restrictive. To obtain a concealed carry permit, applicants must:
- Be 21 years old
- Be a resident of Illinois
- Not have been convicted of a felony or certain misdemeanor crimes
- Not be a fugitive from justice
- Not be a drug addict or habitual user of drugs
- Not be mentally incapacitated
Concealed carry permit holders are required to undergo a background check and must complete a firearms training course.
Other Restrictions
In addition to the above restrictions, Illinois state law also prohibits the possession of certain types of firearms, such as:
- Fully automatic firearms
- Silencers
- Certain high-capacity magazines
- Certain types of shotguns and rifles
In Conclusion
In Illinois, the number of guns you can buy in a month is limited by state law. While federal law does not impose a limit on the number of firearms an individual can purchase in a month, Illinois state law requires a permit from the local law enforcement agency or the Illinois State Police for the purchase of more than one firearm in any 30-day period. Additionally, Illinois state law imposes strict restrictions on gun ownership, including background checks for all firearms purchases through FFLs and prohibitions on certain types of firearms.
Table: Illinois Gun Laws
| Statute | Description |
|---|---|
| 720 ILCS 5/24-1(a) | Purchase limit: 1 firearm every 30 days, permit required |
| 430 ILCS 65/2 | FOID card required for possession or purchase of firearms |
| 430 ILCS 65/3 | Background checks required for all firearms purchases through FFLs |
| 430 ILCS 65/10 | Prohibition on fully automatic firearms, silencers, and certain high-capacity magazines |
Conclusion
In conclusion, Illinois is a state with strict gun control laws, and purchasing firearms in the state can be a complex process. While federal law does not impose a limit on the number of firearms an individual can purchase in a month, Illinois state law imposes significant restrictions on gun ownership. It is essential to understand these restrictions before attempting to purchase firearms in the state.
