SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – A measure recently passed by state Rep. Nathan Reitz, D-Steeleville, would provide law-abiding gun owners relief from burdensome regulations by easing the application process for the Firearm Owner Identification Card (FOID) and concealed carry licenses.

“As a lifelong Southern Illinoisan, I proudly helped lead the fight to pass this legislation to reduce the burden on law-abiding gun owners in our state, especially military members and police officers who have already received extensive training in handling a firearm,” said Reitz. “I will continue standing up for our constitutional rights and supporting responsible gun owners in Illinois.”

Senate Bill 1139 passed with overwhelming bipartisan support. This measure has been sent to the governor for consideration and would make the following changes to current law:
• Extend the life of renewed concealed carry licenses, by setting the new expiration date five years from the expiration of the previous license as opposed to five years from the renewal application date. This will ensure that applicants do not lose time on their license simply for renewing earlier.
• Exempt the World Shooting Complex at Sparta from recent restrictive firearm dealer licensing requirements.
• Clarify that qualified current and retired law enforcement members in Illinois are exempt from concealed carry restrictions under federal law.
• Allow off-duty law enforcement members to carry a concealed firearm while hunting.
• Allow military members to apply for a FOID or a concealed carry license when they are 18, rather than requiring the permission of a parent or guardian.

“One of the first pieces of legislation I passed in Springfield will cut onerous red tape on gun owners who are following the law and protect one of the major economic drivers in our region,” said Reitz. “This legislation is commonsense, and I urge the governor to sign it in to law to reduce restrictions on law-abiding gun owners throughout our state.”

For more information, contact Rep. Reitz’s constituent service office by calling 618-282-7284 or by emailing RepNReitz@gmail.com.