Hirschauer Backs Bill to Disarm Potential Mass Shooters

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Maura Hirschauer, D-Batavia, is fighting to keep guns out of the hands of potentially violent individuals, having recently voted to pass a measure to strengthen specific firearm restrictions for people who pose a risk to themselves or others.

“When someone is exhibiting dangerous behaviors, taking appropriate precautions is critical for their own safety and the safety of everyone around them,” said Hirschauer. “A short-term hold on the person’s ability to purchase or possess a firearm may very well prevent a catastrophic shooting event, but it’s incumbent on those closest to them and law enforcement officials working together—and quickly—to respond if someone is a possible threat.”

Hirschauer is sponsoring House Bill 1092, which expands the scope of Illinois’ “red flag” law, under which close family or household members can petition a judge to temporarily remove guns from a person who poses a threat to others or themselves. Red flag laws, also known as Extreme Risk Protection Order laws, have received renewed attention recently, as Indiana’s version could have potentially prevented an April mass shooting at a FedEx facility had it been used to its fullest extent.

The Hirschauer-backed House Bill 1092 strengthens the original Illinois law that took effect in 2019, expanding who can petition the courts for a firearms restraining order to include former spouses and partners who share a child with a potential shooter. To ensure law enforcement officers are familiar with how the law is supposed to work, the measure creates a training program for local authorities, as well as a public awareness campaign to empower more people to use it.

“Red flag laws are intended to help people in crisis access mental health services and supports while unarmed, so they can reclaim their gun rights when they’re no longer a risk,” said Hirschauer. “By educating both law enforcement and the public on how to use the state’s law effectively, this measure will help curb gun violence and save lives in our communities.”

House Bill 1092 passed the House last week and now awaits consideration in the Senate.