Assault weapons ban challenged in Decatur courtroom

DECATUR (25 News Now) - A lawsuit against the assault weapons ban was heard Friday in Macon County Court, and the judge pledges to make a quick decision.

The lawsuit was filed by Republican State Rep. Dan Caulkins, whose district includes parts of McLean County. It is the eighth legal challenge so far.

This suit seeks to apply every FOID card holder in Illinois.

Attorney Jerry Stocks asked for a temporary restraining order, arguing the ban violates equal protections for gun owners because it excludes certain groups from the law, such as law enforcement.

“If it’s good for 900 people or 2,000 or 2,500 people, it should be good for every FOID card holder, every legal lawful gun owner in Illinois should enjoy the same protection,” said Rep. Caulkins.

Macon County Judge Rodney Forbes heard about 45 minutes of testimony on Friday. He said he’ll make every effort to make a quick ruling.