• New Illinois law allows lawsuits against gun dealers and manufacturers.
• Those marketing firearms, accessories and related goods can be sued for promoting illegal paramilitary or private militia activity.
• Lawsuits can be initiated by both the state and private individuals.
Illinois Takes Aim at Irresponsible Firearm Marketing
In a move expected to tighten the reins on the gun-selling industry, Illinois has stepped forward with a new law. This legislation will allow the state, as well as private individuals, to file lawsuits against gun dealers and manufacturers if they market firearms, accessories, and associated products that are deemed to promote illegal paramilitary or private militia activity in the state.
The Legal Scope of the New Law
The passing of this law endows both the state and private citizens with legal authority to take gun dealers and manufacturers to court for endorsing “irresponsible” marketing methods. Specifically, any promotion perceived to encourage wrongful paramilitary or private militia activities can be grounds for legal action. Both established manufacturers and independent dealers in Illinois are likely to face a new reality of stricter operational practices.
The Expected Impact
This immersed wave of accountability is intended not just to send waves through the gun-selling industry but also to promote safety and lawfulness among the state’s residents. By crafting legal nuances that aim directly at those who indirectly support unhealthy and illegal armed activities, this law sends a clear message—it’s not just who pulls the trigger that can be held accountable, but also those who sell the firearm.
The Breezy Take
This law sets a bold precedent in firearm regulation and could act as a blueprint for other states wrestling with similar gun control issues. It highlights the increasing need to maintain a balance between protection rights and public safety. Over time, the impact will be clearly seen in Illinois where a stricter stance on gun marketing may lead to a decrease in illegal paramilitary activities. Stakeholders in the firearms industry, take heed—for in Illinois, your marketing choices may now have even sterner legal consequences.
Original article: https://stlpr.org/government-politics-issues/2023-08-15/illinois-cracks-down-on-gun-industrys-unsafe-and-unlawful-marketing-under-new-law