A federal appeals court has ruled to uphold Illinois' controversial ban on semiautomatic firearms, rejecting a challenge that argued the law was unconstitutional.

The 7th Circuit Court of Appeals reversed a lower court decision, stating that the state's restrictions on assault weapons and large-capacity magazines align with traditional firearm regulations.The ruling emphasized that legislative decisions on gun control rest with elected representatives, not judicial bodies.

Chief Judge Michael Brennan dissented, asserting that the Second Amendment protects the right to own AR-15 rifles and their magazines, which he deemed essential for self-defense.

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker praised the decision, calling it a victory in the fight against gun violence, while state Attorney General Kwame Raoul highlighted the public safety benefits of the ban.Opposing groups, including the National Shooting Sports Foundation, expressed disappointment, with the NSSF planning to seek Supreme Court review.

The case underscores ongoing national debates over gun control laws and their constitutional implications, with supporters arguing the ban prevents mass casualties and critics claiming it infringes on Second Amendment rights.