Chicago aldermen are urging the state to appeal a court decision to throw out the state's ban on concealed carry weapons.

A federal appeals court ruled earlier this week that Illinois' ban is unconstitutional. The court gave lawmakers 180 days to come up with a law legalizing concealed weapons.

Several alderman said Wednesday they are worried lifting the ban could lead to more gun violence. They said they would be willing to write a new city ordinance, even though it would lead to a lengthy and expensive legal fight.

Chicago's homicide rate already is spiking and there is open gang warfare in parts of the city.

Supporters of gun rights say concealed carry laws allow ordinary citizens to better protect themselves.

Attorney General Lisa Madigan will decide whether to appeal.