McHenry Times

Lawmakers in Illinois recently heard testimony from the Illinois State Police (ISP) regarding their proposed permanent rules for the enforcement of the state's "assault weapon" ban (AWB). The ISP's temporary emergency rules are currently in effect, but action on the proposed permanent rules will be held until the next meeting of the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules (JCAR) in January.

The emergency rules include requirements for registering existing weapons that are included in the AWB. Owners of banned firearms purchased before January 10, 2023, are now required to file an affidavit with the ISP. However, there is still confusion among gun owners regarding which firearms and accessories are banned or require the affidavit.

Senator Craig Wilcox expressed his concerns about the gun ban law, stating, "I believe the gun ban law is a direct infringement on the 2nd Amendment rights of law-abiding gun owners, and will ultimately be found to be unconstitutional. It places undue burdens on lawful gun owners through a set of confusing rules."

While the debate over the constitutionality of the AWB continues, it is important for gun owners to stay informed about the rules and process. More information can be found on the ISP's website.

In other news, 14 school districts in the 32nd District of Illinois have received grants totaling $1.4 million from the Secretary of State's office. These grants will support student learning by providing financial assistance for resources and services such as library books, e-books, audiobooks, and technology.

Pro-life advocates in Illinois have reached a proposed agreement with Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul to halt the enforcement of a controversial law that targeted crisis pregnancy centers. Senate Bill 1909, which was passed earlier this year, aimed to root out "bad actors" in the crisis pregnancy industry. However, a federal judge temporarily blocked the law from being enforced, calling it "both stupid and very likely unconstitutional." Senator Craig Wilcox criticized the law, stating, "The Attorney General already had the power to go after bad actors, and the bill was nothing more than a publicity stunt."

Volunteer firefighters and EMTs in Illinois will receive financial assistance from the state to cover the costs of training and equipment. Starting next year, eligible volunteers can receive a $500 non-refundable income tax credit. To qualify, individuals must meet certain criteria and apply through the Illinois Department of Revenue.

The primary firearm season for deer hunting in Illinois has concluded, with a total harvest of 76,232 deer. While this was slightly lower than the previous year's harvest, there are still opportunities for late-winter and chronic wasting disease (CWD) seasons, as well as archery deer season.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) has made significant efforts to reduce the population of invasive carp in the Illinois River. In a recent operation, more than 700,000 pounds of silver carp were caught within 10 days. This program aims to protect the Great Lakes from invasive species and is considered one of the most significant freshwater harvests in the United States.

As developments unfold in these areas, it is crucial for the public to stay informed about the impact on gun owners, education, reproductive rights, volunteer emergency workers, hunting seasons, and the efforts to manage invasive species in Illinois.

To learn more, click on this link: https://senatorwilcox.com/2023/12/18/capitol-report-from-senator-craig-wilcox-88/