SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — A plan in Springfield could allow anyone charged with their first weapon-related offense to apply for a FOID card while they participate in a pretrial diversion program.
"Under current law, nonviolent offenders charged with their first offense may be diverted to a divergence program such as the First Time Weapons Offense Program," said Rep. Justin Slaughter (D-Chicago). "Upon completion, the state's attorney dismisses the charges. However, the individual cannot apply for a FOID card until after the charges are dismissed."
House Bill 3496 would allow eligible first time offenders to apply for a FOID card much earlier.
All of the current requirements for legal gun ownership in Illinois would remain the same. Sponsors said the Illinois State Police would also have the ability to deny someone's application for a FOID card if they are ineligible.
"There are issues with the FOID card system in our state that have consequences, some intended and some unintended," said Rep. Patrick Windhorst (R-Metropolis). "We see bills like this because we have a FOID card in our state."
The proposal passed unanimously out of the House Restorative Justice & Public Safety Committee. House Bill 3496 could be heard on second reading in the House when representatives return to Springfield next week.
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