Hoffman Fights FOID Backlog with Newly Signed Law

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Continuing to his fight to make state government more efficient, state Rep. Jay Hoffman, D-Swansea, sponsored legislation recently signed into law that will help fix the backlog of Firearm Owners Identification (FOID) and Concealed Carry License (CCL) applications and renewals for Illinois residents.

“I have heard of too many people waiting months or over a year to receive their new FOID and CCL cards. These delays are unnecessary and have been a problem for far too long in our state,” said Hoffman. “By modernizing FOID and CCL, we help responsible gun owners without compromising the integrity and safety that comes from those programs.”

The Hoffman sponsored House Bill 562 was recently signed into law by the governor. The new law provides additional funding to the Illinois State Police specifically to help fix the backlog of FOID and CCL renewals, and FOID and CCL will also be combined to help simplify the process for law-abiding gun owners. The new law will also make a list of reported stolen firearms publicly available to prevent the accidental transfer of stolen firearms. Additionally, $9 million will be directed to support mental health services in communities most affected by gun violence.

“This is common sense legislation that will help stop the transfer of stolen firearms, while also helping the Illinois State Police do their jobs of keeping us all safe,” said Hoffman.

“By prioritizing mental health, making smart changes to improve efficiency, and providing additional resources to the areas most affected by gun violence, we can make our communities safer while still respecting the rights of responsible gun owners in Illinois.”