Congressman Joe Walsh (IL-08) released the following statement today after a Federal Court of Appeals struck down Illinois’ ban on carrying concealed weapons. Illinois is currently the only state in the nation that has not passed a conceal and carry gun law, and this ruling directs Illinois lawmakers to put in place legislation that allows Illinois residents to exercise this basic constitutional right.

“This ruling is a victory for Illinois residents and will give them the constitutional right to defend themselves, as has been established in every other state in the country,” Walsh said. “Illinois has some of the most restrictive gun laws in the country and yet crime rates have soared, including a 49% jump in shootings in Chicago this past November. The right to possess and carry weapons is enshrined in our Constitution, and I am glad that this has been recognized by the Federal Courts.”

Walsh has been on the front lines of the Second Amendment debate. In June, Walsh and three other Members of the Illinois delegation sent a letter to Governor Pat Quinn urging him to give residents their constitutional right to protect and defend themselves.

“I respect the right of gun ownership, and I will remain steadfast in protecting all Americans' Second Amendment right to bear arms.”