SPRINGFIELD – An initiative sponsored by State Senator Dave Koehler (D-Peoria) to address the backlog of FOID card applications, which negatively affects responsible gun owners, passed out of the House on Wednesday.

“The backlog of FOID applications creates unnecessary hassles for responsible gun owners—a concern which has been raised to me by many people,” Koehler said. “It also creates extra work for the Illinois State Police, whose first priority should be keeping firearms out of the hands of people who are a danger to themselves and others.”

The measure would help keep communities safe by enhancing existing background check protocols. Safe and responsible gun owners will have the option to voluntarily submit fingerprints to the Illinois State Police in order to obtain automatic renewals on their cards. Electronic copies of both FOID cards and concealed carry licenses will also be made available to make it easier for lawful gun owners to keep their license with them at all times.

“We have to keep our communities safe by preventing guns from falling into dangerous hands, while at the same time not infringing on the rights of responsible gun owners,” Koehler said. “This legislation helps achieve both goals.”

House Bill 562 passed the House with 75 votes.