Chicago's ban on the sale of firearms ruled unconstitutional

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/jan/07/chicago-ban-firearms-ruled-unconstitutional

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A federal judge has ruled that Chicago's ban on the sale of firearms is unconstitutional.

Judge Edmond E. Chang issued his ruling on Monday in a lawsuit by the Illinois Association of Firearms Retailers and three Chicago residents.

Chang noted Chicago's ban not only covered federally licensed firearms dealers, but also gifts among family members – measures aimed at reducing gun violence.

Chang said a fundamental duty of government was to protect its citizens. However, he said it was also obligated to protect fundamental rights named in the constitution, including the right to keep and bear arms for self-defence.

The judge said Chicago's ban went too far in preventing legal buyers and dealers from engaging in lawful acquisitions and lawful sales of firearms.

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