Attorney General Kwame Raoul has led a coalition of 22 attorneys general in filing an amicus brief to defend the federal law that prohibits felons from possessing firearms. The brief was submitted to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit, urging them to uphold the constitutionality of this federal prohibition after a smaller panel deemed it unconstitutional in relation to a specific defendant.
Raoul stated, "The federal law banning felons from possessing firearms sets a clear standard that enhances public safety." He emphasized policymakers' interest in preventing individuals with serious criminal histories from accessing guns and called on the court to maintain this protection.
The coalition argues that governments can protect public safety through regulations ensuring only responsible individuals possess firearms. They note that most states have similar restrictions on firearm possession by felons. The attorneys general contend that any alternative legal approach would be burdensome for courts.
This initiative is part of Raoul's broader efforts against gun violence in Illinois and nationwide. His office has developed tools like Crime Gun Connect, collaborates with local law enforcement on gun trafficking, and works to raise awareness about Illinois' red flag law and licensing system gaps. Raoul also prosecutes fraudulent FOID card applications.
Additionally, Raoul partners with the U.S. Secret Service National Threat Assessment Center (NTAC) for violence prevention training across various community sectors.
He has been active at both state and federal levels in regulating 3D-printed guns and ghost guns, defending recent rule changes aimed at closing loopholes. The Attorney General’s office also supports crime victim services throughout Illinois.
Joining Raoul are attorneys general from California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Hawaii, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island,Vermont,and Washington.