Bill > SB1201

This bill amends the Criminal Code of 2012 to modify penalties for unlawful weapon possession by introducing a new provision that reduces the severity of certain weapon possession violations. Specifically, the bill creates a petty offense classification for individuals who are convicted of a weapon possession violation that would not be considered an offense if they had a valid Firearm Owner's Identification (FOID) Card. A FOID Card is an Illinois-issued identification that allows residents to purchase and possess firearms and ammunition. The bill effectively provides a less punitive legal pathway for individuals who might have inadvertently violated weapon possession laws without having the proper documentation. This change means that instead of facing more serious criminal charges like misdemeanors or felonies, such individuals would be subject to a petty offense, which typically carries lower penalties and is less damaging to a person's criminal record. The bill is set to become effective on January 1, 2026, giving time for legal systems and law enforcement to prepare for the implementation of this new provision.

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=1201&GAID=18&DocTypeID=SB&SessionID=114&GA=104