PEORIA – Thanks to work by the Illinois State Police and legislative initiatives led by State Senator Dave Koehler (D-Peoria), the state’s FOID card backlog has greatly reduced over the past year.

“Our communities have been struggling with the backlog for years,” Koehler said. “Safe and responsible gun owners who are doing the lawful thing by submitting their applications and waiting their turn should have quicker access to obtaining their licenses. I’m pleased to know that the unnecessary hassle and lengthy wait times are dissipating.”

Since 2020, ISP hired nearly 30 new Firearms Eligibility Analyst Trainees and other administrative personnel who are responsible for improving and streamlining FOID application processing. The increased employment has led to a backlog reduction of 89% for renewals and 75% for new applications.

This work by the ISP to address the backlog comes just months before House Bill 562, a law sponsored by Koehler and initiated by the state police, goes into effect. Under the new law, the FOID card renewal process will be expedited for safe and responsible gun owners in an effort to reduce hassle and prevent future backlogs. Lawful gun owners will additionally find it easier to keep their FOID cards and concealed carry licenses on them at all times through a new electronic option that will be made available for both documents.

“We can keep firearms out of the hands of those who are a danger to themselves and others without infringing on the rights of responsible and lawful gun owners,” Koehler said. “This legislation achieves both of these goals, and it has been a pleasure to work alongside the Illinois State Police to develop and pass this law that will help keep our communities safe.”