Mason Backs Assault Weapons Ban

GURNEE, Ill. – Following the nationwide rash of mass shootings, including the massacre in Highland Park on July 4, state Rep. Joyce Mason, D-Gurnee, is fighting to ban assault weapons by backing new restrictions and registration requirements for military-style weapons.

“There is no reason why anyone needs to own weapons of war like the ones used by the Highland Park shooter,” Mason said. “An assault weapons ban shouldn’t be controversial. It is a common-sense measure that will contribute immensely to making Illinois safer.

Mason is sponsoring House Bill 5522, which bans new assault rifle sales, .50 caliber weapons, and high-capacity magazines, and requires registration of currently owned assault rifles. The bill defines an assault weapon as a semi-automatic firearm or rifle with a belt feed or a detachable magazine that can hold more than ten rounds of ammunition.

A “grandfather provision” in the law, would make firearms—but not ammunition feeding devices or magazines—exempt if they were owned before the law went into effect, provided that they are registered with the Illinois State Police.

“This legislation is long overdue,” Mason said. “Every day we fail to pass meaningful gun safety legislation, more precious lives are lost. I’m proud to sponsor this bill, and I urge my colleagues to do the right thing and support this legislation.”

Mason’s constituent service office can be reached at 847-485-9986 or info@repjoycemason.com.