Illinois’ assault weapons ban—established under the Protect Illinois Communities Act (PICA)—remains fully in effect in 2026. The law regulates the sale, transfer, and future acquisition of firearms classified as assault weapons, along with high‑capacity magazines and certain accessories. The Illinois Supreme Court has upheld the law under the state constitution, while federal challenges continue to move forward.
For Illinois gun owners, first responders, and responsible citizens, understanding the current legal landscape is essential—especially when choosing compliant firearms, ammunition, and gear.
Where the Law Stands Today
The Protect Illinois Communities Act was signed on January 10, 2023, and took effect immediately. It restricts the sale and distribution of firearms and accessories defined as assault weapons, as well as magazines exceeding 10 rounds for long guns or 15 rounds for handguns.
Key points:
- The law is active and enforceable statewide.
- Individuals who owned regulated firearms or magazines before the law took effect were required to file an endorsement affidavit by January 1, 2024.
- New sales and transfers of banned firearms and magazines are prohibited.
Illinois Supreme Court Ruling
In Caulkins v. Pritzker, the Illinois Supreme Court upheld the law on state constitutional grounds. The court ruled that exemptions for law enforcement and military personnel were valid due to their specialized training and duties.
Important details:
- The court did not rule on Second Amendment arguments because those claims were waived earlier in the case.
- As a result, the law stands firmly at the state level while federal litigation continues.
Federal Challenges Still in Motion
Gun‑rights organizations have petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn Cook County’s long‑standing assault weapons ban, hoping to set a national precedent that could impact Illinois’ statewide ban. The Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals has allowed the law to remain in effect while full arguments proceed.
What this means:
- The statewide ban remains active during litigation.
- A future U.S. Supreme Court decision could reshape or overturn the law.
- No federal ruling has changed the law as of early 2026.
What Firearms and Accessories Are Regulated?
Under PICA, a firearm may be classified as an assault weapon if it meets certain criteria, including:
- Semiautomatic rifles with detachable magazines and at least one restricted feature (pistol grip, folding stock, flash suppressor, etc.).
- Semiautomatic pistols or shotguns with similar features.
- High‑capacity magazines exceeding 10 rounds (long guns) or 15 rounds (handguns).
- Conversion devices, such as switches.
The law also regulates certain attachments and accessories, including barrel shrouds and flash suppressors.
What This Means for C.O.P.S., Inc. Customers
If you legally owned a regulated firearm or magazine before January 10, 2023, and filed your affidavit on time, you may continue to possess it under the law’s restrictions. However:
- You cannot sell or transfer these items within Illinois.
- You must follow all storage and transport requirements.
- New purchases of banned firearms or magazines are prohibited.
For law enforcement, military personnel, and certain first responders, exemptions apply within the scope of duty.
How C.O.P.S., Inc. Supports Responsible Ownership
At C.O.P.S., Inc., we remain committed to serving Illinois’ Police, Fire, EMS, and responsible civilian community with compliant, duty‑ready gear.
Explore our updated, compliant inventory:
- Firearms Category — A curated selection of legal, Illinois‑compliant firearms for duty and personal protection.
- Ammunition Category — High‑quality ammunition for training, qualification, and responsible carry.
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We stay current with Illinois regulations so you can shop confidently and responsibly.
Looking Ahead
The Illinois assault weapons ban is stable at the state level but still subject to federal review. The next major development will come when the Seventh Circuit schedules oral arguments or if the U.S. Supreme Court agrees to hear a related case. Until then, the law remains fully enforceable.