New Illinois bill aims to prevent repeat gun charges for first-time offenders

COOK COUNTY, Ill. - Cook County State’s Attorney Eileen Burke introduced a legislative proposal aimed at providing first-time, nonviolent gun offenders with an opportunity to comply with licensing regulations. 

The proposal seeks to allow eligible individuals to obtain a Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) card while participating in a diversion program.

The initiative, which applies only to individuals charged with a Class 4 felony for gun violations, was designed to help otherwise law-abiding citizens who failed to secure a FOID card before possessing a firearm. Under Illinois law, residents must hold a valid FOID card to legally own or carry a firearm. Currently, participants in the First Time Weapons Offense Program can’t apply for a FOID card until after their charges are dismissed, which means many finish the program still lacking the proper license.

What they're saying:

Burke said the proposal aligns with her office’s priorities of cracking down on illegal guns while ensuring fair treatment of first-time offenders. 

"There is no higher priority for this office than getting illegal guns and the people who use them off the street, and we will use every resource at our disposal in that effort," Burke said. "At the same time, we must be smart about how we use our resources and how we impact people and communities. This bill will provide another tool to strike that important balance."

The backstory:

The proposed changes were introduced in the Illinois General Assembly by State Sen. Elgie R. Sims Jr. (D-Chicago) and by State Rep. Justin Slaughter (D-Chicago). The legislation would allow eligible participants in diversion programs to apply for a FOID card during their program participation. The Illinois State Police would still have the authority to deny applications if people do not meet legal qualifications for gun ownership.

This proposal is the first legislative initiative introduced by Burke since she took office in December.

What's next:

The proposed legislation now awaits debate in the Illinois General Assembly, where it will be considered as part of broader efforts to reform gun laws and enforcement policies in the state.