SPRINGFIELD — Gov. Bruce Rauner today signed legislation that gives gun owners a 60-day grace period to keep their Firearms Owners Identification Card active while their renewal application is being processed, even if the processing period extends beyond the card’s expiration date.
Previously, FOID cards were deemed invalid if they expired during the renewal process.
“We shouldn’t punish gun owners who make every effort to get their renewal applications in on time,” Rauner said. “This grace period will ensure there is no interruption in their rights to keep their firearms.”
House Bill 4855 also gives Illinois State Police 60 business days, instead of 30 calendar days, to review and approve renewal applications that are received in a timely manner.
“This is a win-win solution to problems for both gun owners and the ISP regarding FOID card suspensions, revocations and renewals,” said State Police Director Leo Schmitz.
The legislation also adds additional protection to keep guns out of the hands of individuals with mental illness who have been deemed dangerous to themselves or others.
HB 4855 clarifies the reporting standards for hospitals and requires they report all mental health admissions to the state’s Department of Human Services. Tightening the reporting standards allows the state police to intervene more quickly and suspend a person’s FOID card.
“With nearly two-thirds of gun deaths attributable to suicide, this needed legislation will tighten up the regulations that serve to keep guns out of the hands of mentally unstable individuals,” said Rep. Barb Wheeler, R-Crystal Lake. “At the same time, we’re shoring up the Second Amendment rights of responsible FOID card holders by speeding up the renewal process and removing the component that needlessly allows these cards to expire.”
