SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – The Illinois Freedom Caucus has issued the following statement on the passage of Amendment 3 to SB 2226 (the latest version of House Bill 5855) which represents the most expansive gun control measure in the history of the state.
“Once again, we come to the end of the legislative session and the majority party pushes through a massive bill giving rank and file members only a few minutes to read it before voting on it. This legislation is not simple. It is a complex measure that should be seen in the light of day instead of pushed through in the dead of night.
“The corrupt leaders in our state care nothing for the rights of members to cast informed votes nor do they care about the honest citizens whose rights are being trampled with this unconstitutional legislation. Illinois is one of the most restrictive states in the country for gun ownership and yet it is also one of the most violent states in the nation.
“Multiple studies have shown that restricting the Constitutional rights of responsible citizens does not deter crime. The only thing this legislation accomplishes is to make a direct attack on our Second Amendment rights. The respect for individual liberty found in the Bill of Rights is what has made our country a ‘city upon a hill.’ As lawmakers, it is our duty to protect and preserve the Constitution. We believe every member of the House who voted for this legislation violated their oath of office by supporting a bill they know is on its face unconstitutional. Today is a sad day for liberty and freedom. Tyranny reigns supreme in the Illinois Legislature. We will continue to stand firm in our opposition to unconstitutional laws and any and all threats to our rights and freedoms as American citizens.”
The Illinois Freedom Caucus is comprised of State Representatives Adam Niemerg (R-Dieterich); Chris Miller (R-Oakland); Brad Halbrook (R-Shelbyville); Blaine Wilhour (R-Beecher City) and Dan Caulkins (R-Decatur). The members of the Illinois Freedom Caucus are members of the Illinois General Assembly who are advocating for limited government, lower taxes and accountability and integrity in government.