Chambana Sun

In a Jan. 17 Facebook post, Rep. Dan Caulkins (R-Decatur) shared a link to the Illinois State Police's page on frequently asked questions about House Bill 5471.

The FAQ page answers questions like "If i am hunting with a banned weapon under this legislation, but the firearm is approved in the wildlife code, and I am on my property or private property with permission from the landowner, am I exempt from this legislation?" It explains exactly which weapons and accessories are banned, and what individuals and sellers with federal firearms licenses can and cannot do.

Caulkins has been a longtime opponent of the legislation.

"I believe this whole thing is unconstitutional," Caulkins recently told WGLT.org. "And will be proven that in court. I'm not optimistic at all that people will come to their senses or that the Democrats in the General Assembly even consider or care that much."

In mid-December Facebook post, Caulkins urged his constituents to donate to the Federal Firearms Licensees of Illinois -  an organization supporting firearms dealers in the state. "Your 2A rights are under attack," he posted. "Fight back against HB-5855! Donate to the legal defense fund." He included a link to the organization.

House Bill was filed with the clerk by Rep. Dagmara Avelar (D-Romeoville) on Jan. 28, 2022. It was signed into law on Jan. 10 after passing both houses.