SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. (D-Chicago) released the following statement after the Illinois Supreme Court upheld the General Assembly’s assault weapons ban:

“Today’s decision is a victory for public safety, a victory for communities, a victory for the far too many victims and survivors of gun violence who demand action to pass commonsense gun laws in our state. 

“Our communities are tired of the of gun violence plaguing our streets and today’s decision reinforces that Illinois is taking the steps necessary to protect our neighbors and their families. I will rest a bit easier knowing that not only my family, but countless other families, will be protected as they travel to work, school, the mall or church.

“Limiting access to high-capacity magazines and military-style assault weapons will save countless lives. While the Illinois Supreme Court’s decision is a massive step toward ending the bloodshed on our streets, more work is needed to ensure that the tragic gun violence epidemic ends once and for all. I renew my commitment to be a voice and advocate for the victims who have lost their lives to gun violence and for their families who are counting on elected officials for the changes we need to ensure what happened to their loved one doesn’t happen to someone else.

“We celebrate today’s decision, but our work continues.”