- Published: Wednesday, January 30, 2013, 9:56 AM
As state leaders debate concealed carry legislation, Senator Michael E. Hastings (D-Orland Hills) is joining Lt. Governor Sheila Simon’s Firearms Working Group to learn about different perspectives and bridge the geographical divide on gun ownership and use in Illinois.
The working group includes newly elected Republicans and Democrats in the General Assembly who represent urban, suburban and rural districts. They will meet with stakeholders on all sides of the gun control debate as leaders craft a law that could allow Illinoisans to carry concealed firearms.
“As a firearm owner and veteran, I fully understand the responsibility required of being a gun owner,” Hastings said. “I will work with all parties involved to garner bipartisan support for a bill allowing for concealed carry.”
Hastings also noted that safety should be a main concern when debating legislation.
“Firearm owners who want to privately carry a firearm should do so in a safe and responsible manner,” Hastings said. “I look forward to working with the Lt. Governor to make concealed carry in Illinois a safe reality.”