NAPERVILLE (WBBM NEWSRADIO) - A proposed ban on the sale of assault weapons and high-capacity ammunition magazines in Naperville brought dozens of people on both sides of the issue to Tuesday night's city council meeting.
The ban would not prevent Naperville residents from buying those items elsewhere.
Supporters said despite that, it was still important for Naperville to take steps to limit the availability of assault rifles and high-capacity magazines.
Matt Seeberg was among the residents who spoke in support of the ban.
“I think even though it’s only focused on Naperville, it’s a step in the right direction. And, if that step means that we take it further to states and eventually national, I’m actually in favor of that,” Seeerg said.
Resident Janice Guider also supports the ban.
“Let’s not sell military-style assault rifles or the ammunition a killer use in the next mass shooting, here in Naperville,” proclaimed Guider.
Related
Opponents said the ordinance would do little to keep criminals from arming themselves, but would make it harder for law-abiding citizens to buy weapons to protect themselves.
Resident Julie Polis opposes the ban.
“This ordinance that you are proposing, it doesn’t stop criminals, it just penalizes law-abiding citizens,” said Polis.
Another Naperville resident, Frank Marik echoed a similar sentiment.
“They’ll just buy the rifle, the magazine somewhere else and they’ll still kill. This ordinance will make it more difficult for peaceful, law-abiding citizens to purchase the tools necessary to protect our families from not only mass shooters, but also from the increasing number of armed criminals in Naperville,” Marik said.
Some Naperville city council members suggested a resolution asking state lawmakers to enact a ban across Illinois.
The council is also considering an exemption in Naperville's proposed ban that would allow gun shops to continue selling assault rifles and high-capacity magazines to members of law enforcement and the military.
Listen to WBBM Newsradio now on Audacy!
Sign up and follow WBBM Newsradio
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
Related
