Reitz Seeks to Pass Concealed Carry Law in Illinois

</element><element id="paragraph-1" type="body"><![CDATA[ State Rep. Dan Reitz (D-Steeleville) is co-sponsoring legislation in the Illinois House that would allow responsible gun owners to carry a concealed weapon in public.

"Illinois is one of only two states without a concealed carry law on the books and it is time that we recognize the rights of responsible gun owners in our state," Reitz said. "I have faith in our law enforcement officials that concealed carry permits will be issued only after stringent criminal and mental background checks, as mandated by the bill."

House Bill 148 creates the Family and Personal Protection Act, which would provide uniform training and standards for issuing concealed carry permits in Illinois. County sheriffs would be authorized to issue the permits to citizens with a valid Firearm Owner's Identification card who are at least 21 years of age. In addition, they must complete specified training requirements developed by the Illinois Law Enforcement Training Standards Board, consisting of classroom instruction and live firing exercises. Finally, each applicant would undergo a criminal background check and must have no record of mental illness.

"There are many gun owners in my district. They are law-abiding citizens who take responsible gun ownership seriously," Reitz added. "I am a strong supporter of the Second Amendment and the rights it affords to all citizens to be able to protect themselves and their families."

Reitz represents all or parts of St. Clair, Monroe, Randolph and Perry counties. For more information, please contact his constituent service office at (618) 443-5757.