Illinois House Violence Prevention Committee approves violent crime reporting bill

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — State representatives could soon vote on a plan to require law enforcement submit quarterly reports on the number of homicides and violent crimes in their communities.

The legislation calls for the Illinois State Police to send the number of homicides and aggravated assaults with a firearm to the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority. Law enforcement would also be required to document when the crime occurred and the status of each violent crime case.

"Law enforcement agencies will have a consistent standard for reporting and will be able to measure progress in solving crimes," said Rep. Kam Buckner (D-Chicago).

Buckner said lawmakers, researchers, and community leaders could use this data to create strong violent prevention policies.

Still, House Republicans are concerned the state won't be able to keep up with quarterly data if there is limited staff reviewing it. The Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority told Buckner Tuesday that they may need an extension for the bill's effective date due to the staff shortage. Buckner confirmed that he would be willing to change the effective date with a floor amendment in the coming weeks.

Republicans have also suggested that they would like to see data surrounding homicides committed by lawful gun owners compared to gun owners without FOID cards.

"I think I'll be able to support it on the floor," said Rep. CD Davidsmeyer (R-Jacksonville). "As of right now, I'm probably going to hold off just to see what that amendment looks like."

House Bill 1710 passed out of the House Gun Violence Prevention Committee on a partisan 9-5 vote.