Illinois: Firearm Dealer Licensing Bill Passed Out of Committee

Yesterday, the Senate Judiciary Committee passed Senate Bill 1657.  This onerous legislation will now go to the Senate floor where it will await full consideration.  Please contact your state Senator and urge them to OPPOSE Senate Bill 1657 when it comes up for a vote.

SB 1657 creates an onerous gun dealer licensing scheme within the state.  While the purported intent of this legislation was to enhance “responsible business practices,” this proposed legislation only proves that the intention is to close as many federally licensed firearm dealers (FFLs) as possible.  The federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) licenses and closely monitors all FFLs and strictly enforces any infringement of federal law.  SB 1657 goes far beyond federal law in its mandatory regulations and red tape imposed at the state level that it would almost assuredly force the closure of most firearm dealers, and prevent prospective owners from opening new ones.  This legislation seeks to create so many department divisions, anti-gun 5-member licensing boards, and licensing fees that dealers would be forced to close through oversight by anti-gun appointees or being priced out of business. 

Again, please click the “Take Action” button above to contact your state Senator and urge them to OPPOSE Senate Bill 1657 when it comes up for a vote.