SPRINGFIELD, IL – Illinois State Senator Julie Morrison (D–Deerfield) will work alongside other freshmen state legislators in Lieutenant Governor Sheila Simon’s newly created Firearms Working Group.

The lieutenant governor held a press conference earlier this week announcing the creation of a bipartisan Firearms Working Group, representing urban, suburban and rural areas. The group was created after the 7th Circuit Court ruled that Illinois’ concealed weapons ban was unconstitutional. The court gave Illinois lawmakers 180 days to pass legislation on concealed carry weapons.

“When it comes to this issue, the legislature has no time to lose. I hope that we can reach a consensus that allows for responsible gun ownership with commonsense safety measures,” Senator Morrison said. “The conversation needs to move from gun control to public safety.” 

The Firearms Working Group’s will meet with issue stakeholders like the Illinois Rifle Association, Brady PAC and Illinois Council Against Handgun Violence. Members will also speak with mental health professionals, gun manufacturers and crime victims. In addition, members will attend educational trips, including a trip to Sparta World Shooting Complex to learn to safely operate a firearm.

Morrison is also the chief co-sponsor of Senate Bill 69 along with Senator Dan Kotowski (D-Park Ridge). The bill deals with reporting lost or stolen handguns to law enforcement.