SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Continuing his effort to protect the Second Amendment and expand access to outdoor traditions, state Rep. Mike Smiddy, D-Hillsdale, worked to allow sound suppressors on firearms while opposing efforts to restrict the sale of firearms.
"Hunters and recreational shooters shouldn't have to struggle against the hearing consequences of shooting sports when suppressors can make these activities safer," Smiddy said. "It's important that young people learn about hunting, the outdoors and how to safely handle a firearm, and this bill allowing suppressors for hunting will help them do so without endangering their hearing."
Smiddy sponsored Senate Bill 206, which allows the use of sound suppressors for hunting and recreational shooting. The use of suppressors must be registered with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms. Currently, only federal officers and tactical teams may utilize this safety resource.
Smiddy also spent time this session working against proposals being pushed by anti-gun activists. Smiddy opposed a plan that would require state licensing of the sale of firearms at local gun shops as gun dealers in Illinois currently must register and abide by the guidance of federal law. The proposal, House Bill 1016, attempted to impose duplicative registration, regulation and fees on local gun shops, making it harder for them to remain in business.
"Law-abiding gun dealers have enough red tape to deal with to conduct their business, and this proposal would make it harder for them to continue their business and contributing to the economy," Smiddy said. "I’ll continue to fight for our rights as law obeying gun owners and stand up for the Second Amendment as long as I have the privilege to serve in Springfield."
Senate Bill 206 passed the House with bipartisan support and awaits a concurrence motion in the Senate. The anti-gun measure, House Bill 1016, received opposition from both parties in the House and did not pass.
For more information about these bills or any state issue, please call Smiddy's full-time constituent service office at 309-848-9098
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