HB1599 Summary

• Amends Section 24-1 of the Criminal Code of 1961 to define and regulate "semi-automatic assault weapons" and "high capacity ammunition" for purposes of criminal penalties.

• Increases penalties for unlawful weapon possession violations when a semi-automatic assault weapon or high capacity ammunition (50+ caliber) is involved, elevating charges by one felony class in most cases.

• Defines semi-automatic assault weapons to include specific firearm models (AK-47 variants, UZI, AR-15, etc.) and semi-automatic rifles/pistols/shotguns with certain features like folding stocks, pistol grips, or detachable magazines.

• Excludes manually-operated firearms (bolt, pump, lever, or slide action), unserviceable or permanently inoperable firearms, antique firearms, and air rifles from the semi-automatic assault weapon definition.

• Takes effect upon becoming law.