“I support legislation to fix loopholes in the current Firearm Owners Identification Card (FOID) Act.  

HB 96 ‘Fix the FOID ACT,’ introduced today, is legislation focusing on proactive measures to keep Illinoisans safe from potentially dangerous individuals unlawfully possessing firearms.  HB 96 takes steps including requiring background checks for gun buyers, which will reduce gun violence and illegal firearm trafficking.  

Additionally, the legislation proposes fingerprint submissions for those applying for a FOID Card.  Instead of relying on the ‘honor system’ for FOID Card applicants, this proposed legislation will ensure prior violent felony convictions are identified.

As your Sheriff, I’m always looking for improved ways to keep our community safe.  Many weaknesses in the FOID Act were identified following the tragedy in Aurora.  While it’s distressing it takes the loss of life for common sense improvements to be a focus of attention, I’m happy to support our legislators in being proactive and taking steps forward to prevent mass shootings.  I respect the constitutional right of being able to bear arms, but to reduce the likelihood of tragedy, we must keep guns out of the hands of violent felons or those suffering a mental health crisis.”