HB 148 has been under constant attack since its inception, yet remains one of the best chances that the state has in becoming the 49th state with some form of concealed carry law. Both opponents and proponents recognized that this would be a close vote, but this setback does not mean final defeat for this legislation.
HB 148 is a straight forward Right-to-Carry bill which seeks to establish a shall-issue concealed carry permit system that would be administered by county sheriffs. This legislation would ensure that all permitees have undergone a background check and received training in the safe, lawful handling of firearms.
While the Illinois Council Against Handgun Violence, the Brady Campaign, Governor Pat Quinn and the Illinois State Police came out against this legislation, a number of law enforcement agencies supported its passage, including the Chicago Police Lieutenants Association, the Chicago Police Sergeants' Association, the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police, the Illinois Police Benevolent and Protective Association, and the Illinois Sheriffs' Association.
Anti-gunners continue to reject the idea that Illinoisans should be able to carry a firearm for self-defense, but your outspoken support and the support of those who recognize the rights of law-abiding citizens have shown that this fight will continue. Thank you to all those who contacted their legislators in support of HB 148. The NRA will continue to push this important issue until the people of Illinois are afforded the same basic rights so many enjoy. Please watch for future alerts.
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