By CHRISTOPHER WILLS
As state after state voted to let residents carry concealed guns, Illinois has held out, for a long list of reasons: A strong gun control movement. A dynasty of powerful Chicago mayors. A line-up of state leaders who oppose expanding access to guns.
With Wisconsin now on the verge of adopting concealed carry, Illinois soon will be all alone, the last state with a complete ban on carrying concealed weapons
Despite the obstacles, gun-rights advocates believe time and political momentum are on their side. Pro-gun groups expect to make another push this fall or next spring. They’re also pursuing at least two lawsuits. The outcome of the effort will determine whether firearms officially achieve new status in the United States — something citizens of every state can own and carry, regardless of regional differences or which party is in power.
Right now, Wisconsin is the only other state that doesn’t give people a way to obtain permission to carry concealed guns. But lawmakers there have voted to end their ban, and Gov. Scott Walker said Monday that he would sign the change into law after July 4.
In much of the state, guns are commonplace, used for hunting and target-shooting. But in Chicago, guns are associated with crime. People worry that concealed guns will mean more shootings — in bars, on the el, at neighborhood festivals.
But plenty of states have legalized concealed carry despite having large cities where gun crimes are a major concern
http://heraldnews.suntimes.com/news/6247593-418/ill.-likely-to-see-fierce-battle-over-gun-control
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