LaSalle County (Illinois) to Vote on Carrying Concealed Handguns

Given that Illinois is one of only two states that ban people carrying concealed handguns, this was interesting. It is nonbinding, but it is amazing that the resolution was passed 25 to 0.

LaSalle County Board members voted unanimously Thursday to put a referendum on the Nov. 4 ballot asking voters if they support the right to carry concealed firearms.

The resolution was passed 25-0, with board Chairman Jerry Hicks abstaining. Robert Jakupcak, Ronald Dittmer and Thomas Ganiere were absent.

"All comments made on the referendum were pretty much favorable," said board member Randy Freeman. "The only concern the sheriff (Tom Templeton) brought up was making sure it referenced House Bill 1304 to have state police doing the issuing, testing and background checks if it's passed."

The County Board's sheriff and rules committee recently passed a unanimous resolution to put a referendum on the ballot. During Thursday's full board meeting, State's Attorney Brian Towne said while he'd like to remain neutral on the referendum, he thinks it will have to go through several amendments before it's finally enacted. . . .

Hat tip to Jeff Soyer.