SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Illinois is about to ban gun ads that officials think are targeted at children or militants.
On June 16, Illinois lawmakers sent to the Governor a bill passed in the spring legislative session that would ban any firearm industry member from advertising or promoting a firearm that “reasonably appears to recommend individuals engage in paramilitary or militia activity,” or encourages minors to unlawfully purchase a gun, according to reports from The Associated Press and FOX News. WMBD Radio News first reported on the measure in May.
Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul says just like cigarettes, it’s acceptable to go after marketing of products that are harmful. But, others point out that this particular product is protected by the Second Amendment.
This law could open up the door to lawsuits against gun makers, though. While there’s a federal law that prohibits suing firearm manufacturers for the actions of a criminal, it apparently does allow legal action if a state law names specific guns or specific conduct.
The bill is HB0218.
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