Firearm owners in Illinois are already familiar with the Firearm Owners Identification card system. The card allows them to purchase and possess a firearm. Carriers are also aware of the distinctions between a FOID card and a Concealed Carry License (CCL).
The intended purpose of the FOID card is to keep firearms out of the hands of people who could be dangerous. Recently, legislators introduced a bill that would change some aspects of the FOID card and how carriers can use it.
Here’s what you should know about the proposed changes and how they could impact your ability to carry a firearm in Illinois.
What it would change
Currently, there is a long list of qualifications to be eligible for a FOID card. The legislation would add some features to the card as well as some new requirements, including:
- A digital option for the card
- Auto-renewal when renewing a CCL
- Requiring a complete set of fingerprints to be sent to the Illinois State Police
The proposal comes after a warehouse shooting where a convicted felon acquired a firearm by lying on his FOID application.
When will the change take place?
Currently, the legislature is still working on passing the bill. At this point, the Illinois House has passed the current version, and it has been given to the Senate.
It will be important to watch this legislation if you are on either side of the gun-sale table. While some of the changes will be helpful, other portions could raise new rules to follow to complete a legal sale.