. . . from the
For Immediate Release: For More Information:
(773)
292-0202
ARROYO PASSES “ONE GUN PER MONTH” BILL
OUT OF COMMITTEE
Legislation limits sale and transfer of
handguns within a 30-day period
“This legislation is crucial to
make certain that our streets remain safe from people who unlawfully possess
guns,” Arroyo said. “Many times, guns are traded or given from one person to
another in order to get around current gun laws. My legislation tightens restrictions
to make sure that criminals do not have easy access to guns.”
House Bill 1078 prohibits multiple sales of handguns to an
individual within a 30-day period. It also creates the offense of unlawful
acquisition of a handgun. The purpose behind the measure is to reduce the
number of guns entering the black market and to hinder the movement of guns
across state lines.
According to a 2000 study by the federal Bureau of Alcohol,
Tobacco and Firearms, 20 percent of all retail handguns recovered during crimes
were purchased as part of a multiple sale. Arroyo’s measure targets those who
legally buy guns in bulk, but resell, give or trade guns to criminals who are
not licensed to own a handgun.
“We
need to better crack down on gangs, and put a stop to gun crimes and gun trafficking,”
Arroyo said. “I am proud of how far we have come to keep guns off our streets,
but more attention is always needed on this subject, and this is another step
in the right direction.”
House Bill 1078 is supported by
the office of Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley and the
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