Bill > SB2138

This bill amends the Criminal Code of 2012 to provide expanded weapon-carrying privileges for court security officers. Specifically, the legislation exempts court security officers from existing restrictions on carrying weapons in vehicles, on their person, or in public spaces within municipal boundaries. The bill also clarifies that court security officers are to be considered qualified law enforcement officers under the federal Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act of 2004, which grants them additional rights to carry firearms across jurisdictional boundaries. This means that active court security officers, and those who are retired, can carry weapons in more contexts than previously allowed, provided they meet certain state compliance requirements. The changes are intended to enhance the ability of court security personnel to protect themselves and others while performing their official duties, recognizing their role in maintaining safety in judicial settings. The bill places the burden of proving exemption on the defendant if their weapon possession is challenged, which is consistent with existing legal frameworks for weapon-related offenses.

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=2138&GAID=18&DocTypeID=SB&SessionID=114&GA=104