Senator Bill Cunningham (D-Chicago) is one of 15 newly-elected General Assembly members who will comprise Lt. Gov. Sheila Simon’s Firearms Working Group in an effort to bridge the regional gaps related to gun ownership and use in Illinois.

“I look forward to working with members across the aisle to address the gun control issues we face in Illinois,” said Sen. Cunningham. "By talking to gun owners and people impacted by gun violence, I hope to learn more about what needs to be done to address the important issue of gun control in our state. My hope is that as a group we can reach a consensus and do what is best for the residents of Illinois.”

The working group consists of newly elected members in both chambers of the General Assembly. These members represent urban, suburban and rural districts. The goal is to meet with stakeholders on all sides of the gun control debate. 

This past December, a federal appeals court struck down Illinois’ ban on carrying concealed weapons and gave the state 180 days to pass legislation allowing for concealed carry.

The Firearms Working Group plans to talk to gun owners, hunters, families impacted by gun violence, domestic violence prevention advocates, mental health experts and law enforcement officials, among others.