Courts should back local gun control

A recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling that struck down the District of Columbia's ban on handguns will likely send tremors that will be felt here in Illinois.

As the City of Chicago and even our local suburban communities feel the effect of gun violence, now is not the time to be removing safety measures that protect lives.

In an effort to protect families, local communities and even states have enacted common-sense safety measures to keep guns out of the hands of criminals and ensure that only law-abiding citizens may purchase firearms.

Courts should recognize the rights of states and local government to enact these safety measures that help create stronger, safer communities.

The diversity of our nation makes it plain to see that what may work in Montana will not work in Hoffman Estates.

Assault weapons, large caliber rifles and high-capacity ammunition magazines are items that suburban communities should have the ability to address.

Unfortunately in Illinois, these common-sense safety measures have fallen prey to the same political bickering and dysfunction that has plagued every other issue in our capitol.

Our neighborhoods will not be safer with more guns on the street.

The time is now for our legislators to make good on the promises they have made and take strong action to enact common-sense safety measures.

It's not good enough to just talk about these items on campaign brochures, our children and our communities need real action now.

Peggy Brothman

Hoffman Estates