SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — A plan that requires firearms to be locked in safe storage containers in the presence of minors or at risk persons had fierce debate in the Illinois House gun violence prevention committee Wednesday.

Under this plan, if a minor or at risk person gains access to a firearm without proper gun storage, the gun owner could face fines based on the severity of the crime. 

State Rep. Maura Hirschauer (D-West Chicago) has been working on this legislation for multiple years. She said the passage of this policy will reduce all gun crimes.

"About 75% of guns used in school shootings are accessed at home," Hirschauer said. "Safe gun storage is truly something I believe we can all agree."

If the gun is stolen by an intruder, the firearm owner would not face any fines. However, in the case a firearm is stolen, the owner must report the crime in 48 hours.

GOP members in committee said this bill is an overreach of the state, and that provisions of safe storage in a vehicle weren’t properly thought out.

"I could see this for gun owners creating even more confusion about what is lawful and unlawful for transporting a firearm in a vehicle particularly for concealed carry owners," state Rep. Patrick Windhorst (R-Harrisburg) said.

Republican lawmakers weren’t the only ones opposing the bill. Multiple testimonies by opponents said the restrictions on lawful gun owners will be overbearing. They also said will make it harder for high school trap shooting teams to compete if this policy passes.

One opponent said he’s seen a decrease in travel to the state for adult level shooting competitions as Illinois legislation continues to regulate firearms. 

A provision in the plan allows police to revoke a FOID card. Todd Vandermyde with the Aurora Sportsmen’s Club said only judges can revoke a FOID card, making this bill unconstitutional.

"The U.S. Supreme Court said before the Trump administration deports criminal gang members they’re entitled to a hearing and due process. Yet here, you’re allowing the state police to administratively remove the individual right to possess, keep and carry a firearm without any hearing whatsoever," Vandermyde said.

A few advocates disagreed with how opponents were interpreting this legislation.

"We’re not going to sponsor legislation that we don’t think is constitutional or can’t be defended," Stephen Patton with GPAC said.

While there was debate on both sides, Republicans and Democrats alike agreed on the importance of legislature that protects children from gun accidents.

"I think we’re saying the same thing we’re just disagreeing with what is the best way to get there," state Rep. Bob Morgan said. "These accidental shootings and crimes with stolen guns are happening, it’s not fiction. We can all agree needs to be addressed."

Since this was just a subject matter hearing, the bill will stay in the House gun violence prevention committee. Lawmakers could bring the plan to a vote in the coming weeks before session ends May 31st.

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