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SB 298

FIREARM OWNERS ID ACT-REPEAL

104th Regular Session Introduced by Neil Anderson and 3 co-sponsors

SB 298 would eliminate Illinois's mandatory Firearm Owners Identification card system, removing state licensing requirements for firearm ownership established since 1968.

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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 298

Legislative bill overview

SB 298 proposes to repeal Illinois's Firearm Owners Identification (FOID) card requirement, which has been in place since 1968. The FOID card currently requires Illinois residents to obtain a state-issued permit before purchasing firearms or ammunition and renew it periodically. This bill would eliminate that licensing system entirely.

Why is this important

The FOID system is one of the nation's oldest firearm licensing frameworks and generates millions in annual fees while serving as a background check mechanism. Eliminating it would represent a significant shift in Illinois gun policy, affecting how the state verifies eligibility to own firearms and potentially influencing national conversations about licensing versus constitutional carry approaches.

Potential points of contention

  • Public safety vs. rights framing: Supporters argue FOID cards infringe on Second Amendment rights and create barriers for law-abiding citizens; opponents contend they serve as an important screening tool to prevent firearm access by prohibited persons
  • Implementation of alternative safeguards: Repeal raises questions about what, if any, background check mechanisms would remain in place during firearm purchases
  • Revenue and enforcement implications: Illinois receives substantial revenue from FOID fees; repeal would affect state budget and potentially the agency operations dependent on these funds
  • Constitutional tensions: Illinois courts have previously upheld FOID requirements; repeal could spark legal challenges about state authority over firearms regulation

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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