Gill Urges Passage of ‘Karina’s Bill’ to Remove Guns from Domestic Abusers

CHICAGO – Concerned about recent tragedies and inconsistent court orders, state Rep. Mary Gill, D-Chicago, is encouraging the General Assembly to pass “Karina’s Bill” to strengthen protection orders and ensure domestic abusers surrender their guns.

“It’s heartbreaking to read stories of women and children losing their lives at the hands of an abuser when the danger was clearly apparent,” Gill said. “Let’s make sure we’re responsibly addressing volatile situations that are putting lives at risk.”

Earlier this year, Gill supported House Bill 676 to clarify and strengthen existing law to make sure guns are uniformly removed from homes when survivors are granted an order of protection with a firearm remedy. In recent months, the effort has been named “Karina’s Bill” in remembrance of Karina Gonzalez, a Chicago woman who was shot and killed in her home along with her daughter allegedly by her husband after he was ordered to stay away from them.

Last month, Chicago resident Adrianna Lopez was shot and killed not long after reportedly filing an order of protection against her ex-boyfriend. The ex-boyfriend, who remains a suspect in her murder, later shot and wounded an Illinois State Police trooper before being brought into custody.

“Karina’s Bill can and should be a significant part of a comprehensive effort to combat domestic violence and prevent tragedies,” Gill said. “As we return to Springfield for veto session, this is a topic that should be a priority.”

For more information, please contact RepMaryGill@gmail.com.