Yesterday, Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul led a coalition of 18 attorneys general, filing an amicus brief, urging the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 4th District to maintain the prohibition of firearms in sensitive places like schools, parks, childcare facilities, places of worship, and recreational and multipurpose exhibition facilities in Montgomery County, Maryland according to a press release.
Attorney General Raoul, along with District of Columbia Attorney General Brian Schwalb and Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown argue that the Second Amendment provides room for states and localities to implement reasonable firearm regulations to protect against gun violence, specifically in sensitive places. They also argue that Montgomery County's list of sensitive places is consistent with that of other jurisdictions that restrict firearm possession in crowded places, around vulnerable populations and while exercising other constitutionally-protected rights. This matter has been a significant topic over recent years, with various perspectives competing for recognition.
Attorney General Raoul's amicus brief is only one part of his ongoing efforts to address gun violence throughout Illinois and the nation, as the Attorney General's office has actively worked with state law enforcement agencies and prosecutors to increase awareness of Illinois’ red flag law and to address gaps in the state’s firearms licensing system. Governor JB Pritzker has also been a key figure in this fight, signing the Firearms Industry Responsibility Act into law on August 12th, reflecting a cooperative effort between various state agencies according to Attorney General Raoul's office.
