SPRINGFIELD -- The Illinois House shot down an attempt to limit handgun purchases Wednesday.
The measure, designed to address gun violence in Chicago, fell seven votes short of the 60 votes needed for passage after opponents argued that handgun ownership already is banned in Illinois’ largest city.
The proposal, which was supported by Chicago Mayor Richard Daley, would limit handgun sales and purchases to one person per month. It is aimed at preventing traffickers from buying guns in bulk to resell to criminals.
Collectors could seek an exemption to enable them to purchase larger quantities.
“This bill may be an inconvenience for some, but it’s an important part of our work to stop senseless killings in our schools and neighborhoods,” said state Rep. Luis Arroyo, D-Chicago, who sponsored the proposal.
The action came on a day when over 100 people traveled from Chicago to lobby for the proposal. During debate on the measure, they often broke into cheers while they watched in the gallery.
The issue of gun violence has been in the spotlight in Chicago in recent weeks. Since September, 20 students in the nation’s third-largest school district have died in shootings.
“It’s a public health issue,” said state Rep. Harry Osterman, D-Chicago.
Gov. Rod Blagojevich, who made a rare appearance in the Capitol Wednesday, said he was disappointed in the outcome.
"How many more children have to die before lawmakers pass legislation that will save lives and keep guns out of the wrong hands?” he asked.
Opponents said the proposed legislation wouldn’t stop people from crossing state lines in order to purchase multiple handguns.
“If they’re a criminal, they’re going to do it anyway,” said state Rep. Mike Bost, R-Murphysboro. “We’re taking away personal rights here.”
The legislation is part of a package of gun control measures being pushed in the General Assembly this fall. Its defeat makes it unclear whether other proposals will move forward in the legislative process.
The legislation is House Bill 4393.
It only failed by seven votes, a little close for me.
