Concealed Weapons Bill Passed in Illinois

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The right to bear arms is a deeply held conviction for many people in the United States. However, the issue of whether people should be allowed to carry concealed weapons is an issue that is hotly contested in many areas of the country. In some states, it is common for people to carry guns. In other areas, the debate over whether concealed carry improves safety or creates more of a public hazard continues. In Illinois, the legislature recently passed a bill that allows residents to carry weapons on their person with a number of restrictions.
Illinois Firearm Concealed Carry Act
On July 10, 2013, the Illinois legislature in Springfield passed a bill that would allow residents of the state to carry concealed firearms, but added a few restrictions to ensure the safety of citizens.
With the bill, Illinois joins the 49 other states that have made provisions in the law for carrying some sort of weapon.
Political Opposition
Allowing concealed carry does have its detractors in the political community. Though no one contests the right to own a gun under the Second Amendment, many people feel that the widespread availability of guns will result in numerous mishaps, as well as outright tragedies. However, with the high rate of murder in Chicago in recent years, the desire of residents to have means to protect themselves caused a wave of support for the new bill. Governor Pat Quinn’s opinion fell on the side of caution, and he actively tried to place more limitations on the measure. However, these provisions were soundly overruled by the legislature.
Restrictions
The Illinois bill prohibits the carrying of firearms in courthouses, government buildings and schools. Some mental health restrictions also apply. Gun owners must have a Firearm Owners Identification Card and pass a background check. They must also pass 16-hour gun safety class, which the longest class in any state.
The right to bear arms is a deeply held conviction for many people in the United States. However, the issue of whether people should be allowed to carry concealed weapons is an issue that is hotly contested in many areas of the country. In some states, it is common for people to carry guns. In other areas, the debate over whether concealed carry improves safety or creates more of a public hazard continues. In Illinois, the legislature recently passed a bill that allows residents to carry weapons on their person with a number of restrictions.
Illinois Firearm Concealed Carry Act
On July 10, 2013, the Illinois legislature in Springfield passed a bill that would allow residents of the state to carry concealed firearms, but added a few restrictions to ensure the safety of citizens.
With the bill, Illinois joins the 49 other states that have made provisions in the law for carrying some sort of weapon.
Political Opposition
Allowing concealed carry does have its detractors in the political community. Though no one contests the right to own a gun under the Second Amendment, many people feel that the widespread availability of guns will result in numerous mishaps, as well as outright tragedies. However, with the high rate of murder in Chicago in recent years, the desire of residents to have means to protect themselves caused a wave of support for the new bill. Governor Pat Quinn’s opinion fell on the side of caution, and he actively tried to place more limitations on the measure. However, these provisions were soundly overruled by the legislature.
Restrictions
The Illinois bill prohibits the carrying of firearms in courthouses, government buildings and schools. Some mental health restrictions also apply. Gun owners must have a Firearm Owners Identification Card and pass a background check. They must also pass 16-hour gun safety class, which the longest class in any state.

 

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