Bill To “Shut Down Most Gun Shops” Headed To Illinois House

posted on May 4, 2016
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **

The Illinois State Rifle Association is warning gun owners about a bill that is expected to come up for a vote in the state House this week. In the group’s urgent alert, leaders note that it would “shut down most gun shops” in the state. 

While final details of the legislation have yet to be released, it’s expected to require gun dealers—already FFL holders—to acquire a license from the state to operate. Mandated within that license would be the requirement that every gun and ammunition purchase be videotaped, and the video would be turned over to police. 

In addition, licensed dealers would be forced to install state-of-the-art vaults and alarms. The $2 million tab for these high-end security systems would serve to drive most smaller shops out of business.

Use Your Power!

A similar piece of legislation was recently rejected in California, so let’s make sure it’s rejected in Illinois, too. Contact your state senator or state representative and tell them you oppose any legislation that would license firearm retailers.

Latest

procarry.jpg
procarry.jpg

Open Carry in California?

On January 2, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit struck down California’s ban on open carry in most of the state. The panel decision was 2-1.

Gun Skills | Press Check

Back when I was a new gun owner, I drilled in a habit of checking to be sure my firearm was unloaded, which was also a terrific opportunity to work on gun-handling skills like racking the action and activating the controls.

The Incomparable, Inimitable Phil Schreier—1962-2025

The NRA took a serious hit on December 28th. We lost Phil Schreier, director of NRA Museums. He did everything the doctors asked of him and then some. But it wasn’t enough. Leukemia won, and we all lost.

No More Tax on Suppressors!

When President Donald Trump (R) signed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBB) into law on July 4, 2025, he scheduled the end of the burdensome $200 excise tax imposed on suppressors, short-barreled firearms and “any other weapons” as defined by the National Firearms Act (NFA). That end came on January 1.

Armed Citizens are the “Rugged Individualists” Mamdani Despises

In his inauguration speech as the new mayor of New York City, Zohran Mamdani said, behind his characteristically easy smile, “We will replace the frigidity of rugged individualism with the warmth of collectivism.”

Conscientious Carry

While going about armed, you need to fit into society responsibly and politely. Here’s how.



Get the best of America's 1st Freedom delivered to your inbox.