Who is Exempt from Illinois Assault Weapons Ban?
Illinois has strict laws regulating the possession and sale of assault weapons, which are considered to be firearms that have a military or semi-automatic design. The Illinois assault weapons ban, also known as the Firearm Owners Identification (FOID) Card Act, was enacted in 2013 to reduce gun violence and prevent the sale of high-capacity weapons. However, there are certain individuals and circumstances that are exempt from the ban.
Who is Exempt from the Illinois Assault Weapons Ban?
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**Active Duty Military and Law Enforcement Personnel**
Active duty military personnel and law enforcement officers are exempt from the Illinois assault weapons ban. This is because they are required to use these types of weapons as part of their job duties. However, they must still comply with all other federal and state laws regarding the possession and use of firearms.
**Firearm Dealers and Manufacturers**
Firearm dealers and manufacturers are also exempt from the Illinois assault weapons ban. This is because they are licensed by the federal government and are required to comply with federal laws regarding the sale and manufacture of firearms. However, they must still comply with all state laws regarding the sale and transfer of firearms.
**Hunters and Sportsmen**
Hunters and sportsmen are exempt from the Illinois assault weapons ban if they are using a firearm for hunting or target shooting. However, they must still comply with all state laws regarding the possession and use of firearms, including obtaining a FOID card and registering their firearm.
**Curios and Relics**
Curios and relics are firearms that are considered to be historical or antique, and are exempt from the Illinois assault weapons ban. These types of firearms are typically older than 50 years and are not designed for modern use. However, they must still comply with all state laws regarding the possession and ownership of firearms.
**Rifles and Shotguns Used for Hunting**
Rifles and shotguns used for hunting are exempt from the Illinois assault weapons ban if they are used for hunting in accordance with state regulations. However, they must still comply with all state laws regarding the possession and use of firearms, including obtaining a FOID card and registering their firearm.
**Exemptions for Certain Firearms**
The Illinois assault weapons ban does not apply to certain types of firearms, including:
- Single-shot firearms: Firearms that can only fire one round at a time are exempt from the ban.
- Break-action firearms: Firearms that have a break-action mechanism, which allows the user to open the action to load or unload the weapon, are exempt from the ban.
- Single-stack magazines: Magazines that can only hold one round of ammunition are exempt from the ban.
- Rifles and shotguns with a fixed magazine: Rifles and shotguns that have a fixed magazine that can only hold a certain number of rounds are exempt from the ban.
Table: Exemptions from the Illinois Assault Weapons Ban
| Exemption | Description |
|---|---|
| Active Duty Military and Law Enforcement Personnel | Required to use assault weapons as part of their job duties |
| Firearm Dealers and Manufacturers | Licensed by the federal government and comply with federal laws |
| Hunters and Sportsmen | Using firearms for hunting or target shooting |
| Curios and Relics | Historical or antique firearms that are not designed for modern use |
| Rifles and Shotguns Used for Hunting | Used for hunting in accordance with state regulations |
| Single-shot Firearms | Can only fire one round at a time |
| Break-action Firearms | Have a break-action mechanism |
| Single-stack Magazines | Can only hold one round of ammunition |
| Rifles and Shotguns with a Fixed Magazine | Have a fixed magazine that can only hold a certain number of rounds |
Conclusion
The Illinois assault weapons ban is designed to reduce gun violence and prevent the sale of high-capacity weapons. However, there are certain individuals and circumstances that are exempt from the ban. Understanding who is exempt from the ban is important for individuals who own or wish to own firearms in Illinois. By familiarizing yourself with the exemptions, you can ensure that you are in compliance with state laws and regulations.
