Ill. House rejects legalizing concealed carry

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Updated: June 7, 2011 12:43AM

SPRINGFIELD — A measure letting Illinois residents carry concealed guns in public fell short Thursday in the Illinois House after weeks of rising optimism among supporters.

It would have allowed people to carry guns if they were properly registered and had completed eight hours of training, including target practice. Applicants would have needed to pass a background check and a review of their mental health history.

The vote was 65-32, giving the measure a solid majority. But it needed 71 votes to pass, a standard requirement for legislation that restricts local communities’ regulatory power.

Conservative Democrats have watched as the Legislature approved several liberal measures, including legalizing civil unions and abolishing the death penalty. They had hoped legislative leaders would help legalize concealed carry as a way of shoring up Democrats outside the Chicago area.

“Downstate needs something to hang their hat on,” Rep. Brandon Phelps, D-Harrisburg, said earlier this week. “We haven’t got anything. This is one thing we ask.”

Then Democratic Gov. Pat Quinn weighed in with a threat to veto the measure if it reached his desk, changing the legislative landscape.

Phelps said he called the bill for a vote Thursday despite thinking it probably would fail. He could call another vote, but Phelps said he felt Thursday offered the best chance to pass it before the Legislature adjourns May 31.

“This bill will make the work of our police officers much harder,” said Rep. Edward Acevedo, D-Chicago. “Fewer guns means less violence, less injury and less death. It’s as simple as that.”