The Protect Illinois Communities Act (PICA), signed into law in 2023, has significantly reshaped firearm ownership regulations in the state. This legislation was designed to address concerns about gun violence by imposing stricter controls on the types of firearms that Illinois residents can purchase, own, and transfer. For firearms purchasers and collectors, understanding the nuances of this act is crucial to staying compliant with the law.

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Overview of Restricted Firearms

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Under PICA, certain categories of firearms are now prohibited for sale, purchase, and transfer within Illinois. These primarily include what are often referred to as "assault weapons," along with some specific features that define these firearms under the act.

The act prohibits the sale and possession of firearms that fall into the following categories:

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1. **Semi-automatic rifles with a detachable magazine** that have one or more of the following features:

   - A folding or telescoping stock
   - A pistol grip that protrudes conspicuously beneath the action of the weapon
   - A thumbhole stock
   - A forward grip
   - A grenade launcher or flare launcher
   - A barrel shroud

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2. **Semi-automatic pistols** that have a detachable magazine and possess one or more of the following features:
   - A threaded barrel
   - A second pistol grip
   - A barrel shroud
   - The capacity to accept a magazine outside of the pistol grip
   - A semi-automatic version of an automatic firearm

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3. **Semi-automatic shotguns** with any of the following:
   - A folding or telescoping stock
   - A pistol grip
   - A fixed magazine capacity exceeding 5 rounds
   - The ability to accept a detachable magazine

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Additionally, the act also restricts **large capacity magazines**, defined as those capable of holding more than 10 rounds for long guns and more than 15 rounds for handguns.

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### Impact on Firearms Purchasers and Collectors

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For collectors and prospective purchasers, PICA requires a detailed understanding of firearm features that could classify a gun as an "assault weapon" under Illinois law. This means paying close attention not just to the type of firearm, but also to specific features that could render it prohibited.

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For instance, a semi-automatic rifle with a detachable magazine and a folding stock would be prohibited under PICA. Similarly, a semi-automatic pistol with a threaded barrel or the capacity to accept a magazine outside of the pistol grip would also fall under the ban.

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However, firearms that do not possess any of the listed features remain legal to own and transfer, provided they comply with other Illinois firearm regulations. It’s crucial for collectors to verify that any potential acquisitions do not include prohibited features, especially when purchasing firearms that may have been legally owned before the act was passed.

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### Exceptions and Compliance

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It’s worth noting that the act does provide some exceptions. Firearms lawfully owned before the enactment of PICA may be grandfathered in, allowing the current owners to retain possession under certain conditions. Owners must ensure that they register these firearms with the Illinois State Police (ISP) by the required deadline to remain compliant.

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Collectors who already own firearms that are now classified as prohibited must take steps to ensure they are registered or dispose of them in accordance with the law. Failure to comply could result in significant penalties, including the potential loss of firearm ownership rights.

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### Conclusion

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The Protect Illinois Communities Act marks a significant change in Illinois firearm law, particularly for those purchasing or collecting firearms. Understanding the specific features that classify firearms as prohibited is essential for compliance. Purchasers and collectors must remain vigilant, ensuring that any acquisitions adhere to the new legal standards set forth by the act. By staying informed and proactive, firearm owners in Illinois can continue to enjoy their collections without running afoul of the law.

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**Sources:**

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