A federal appeals court has upheld Illinois’ ban on concealed firearms aboard public transportation, stating it aligns with historical regulations on sensitive areas. The decision reverses a previous ruling and reinforces the state’s ability to enforce firearm restrictions in crowded, enclosed environments like buses and trains.
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CHICAGO, IL (3-minute read) — A federal appeals court has upheld Illinois’ ban on carrying concealed firearms aboard public transportation, ruling that the restriction does not violate the Second Amendment. The decision, made by a three-judge panel of the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals, overturns a previous ruling from a federal judge in Rockford who had declared the ban unconstitutional in a limited ruling affecting just four plaintiffs.
The case began in 2022 when four Illinois residents filed a federal lawsuit claiming that the prohibition against carrying concealed firearms on public transit, such as the CTA and Metra, interfered with their right to self-defense. They argued that the law effectively limited their mobility, forcing them to avoid using public transportation.
However, the appeals court disagreed. Writing for the panel, Judge Joshua Kolar emphasized that while the Second Amendment protects the individual right to bear arms for self-defense, it does not prevent the government from enacting regulations in line with the nation’s historical approach to firearm restrictions. Kolar explained that public transit systems, especially enclosed, high-density environments like buses and trains, can be treated as “sensitive places,” similar to courthouses, airplanes, or government buildings, where firearm bans have long been accepted.
Firearms and Sensitive Spaces: What the Court Said
In its ruling, the court echoed sentiments previously affirmed by the U.S. Supreme Court, stating that laws restricting firearms in “sensitive places” are not in conflict with the Second Amendment. Judge Kolar added that “crowded and confined metal tubes unlike anything the Founders envisioned” justified temporary disarmament in the interest of public safety.
It remains uncertain whether the plaintiffs will pursue further legal action, either by requesting a rehearing or taking the case to the U.S. Supreme Court.
Safety Tip: Always research state and local laws before carrying a concealed firearm. Regulations can vary widely, especially in “sensitive places” like schools, government buildings, and public transit.
