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Firearm Concealed Carry Act

NoWeaponHouse Bill 0183 (HB-0183), commonly known as the Firearm Concealed Carry Act, became law in Illinois on July 9, 2013. The law allows concealed carry licensees to carry concealed or mostly concealed handguns in most public places. See below for exceptions to this law.

The Illinois State Police are responsible for the implementation of licensing procedures, but local governments like the Village of Tinley Park and local law enforcement agencies such as the Tinley Park Police Department also have obligations under the law.

Definition of "Handgun"
HB-0183 defines a handgun as “any device which is designed to expel a projectile or projectiles by the action of an explosion, expansion of gas or escape of gas that is designed to be held and fired by the use of a single hand.” The term “handgun” does not include stun guns, Tasers, machine guns, short-barreled rifles or shotguns, or any pneumatic guns, spring guns, paintball guns or BB guns that have a muzzle velocity of less than 200 feet per second.

Concealed Carry Licensee Responsibilities
Licensees who are carrying a concealed firearm must disclose that information to a law enforcement officer upon request during all investigative/traffic stops. If the officer does not ask, the licensee is not obliged to reveal that information. Concealed carry licensees are not allowed to carry a concealed firearm while under the influence of alcohol, drugs (both legal and illegal), or any combination of drugs and alcohol.

People who have a concealed carry license in another state are not granted reciprocity in Illinois, meaning they may not lawfully carry a concealed handgun unless they apply for, and are issued, an Illinois concealed carry license. People with a valid out-of-state concealed carry license are allowed to carry a concealed firearm within a vehicle. If they leave their vehicle, they must store the firearm within a locked vehicle or locked container within the vehicle.

Exceptions to the Law
Concealed weapons are not allowed at public gatherings or special events conducted on property open to the public that require the issuance of a permit from the Village of Tinley Park. These events must have approved signage posted at all entrances notifying attendees that concealed firearms will not be allowed on the premises.

A concealed carry licensee may walk through such a public gathering only if they must do so to access their residence, place of business or vehicle. The Village of Tinley Park will review its current policies and required forms used to apply for special events, parades, block parties and open-air gatherings, and will adjust said policies and forms where appropriate.