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* Monique!…


Senate committee now weighing advisory referendum to ask voters on the ballot if they support the use of marijuana for recreational purposes.

— Monique Garcia (@moniquegarcia) February 21, 2018


* WCIA TV

Democrats are escalating their calls for a series new statewide gun control measures in the wake of last week’s mass school shooting in Florida, including bans on assault weapons, “ghost guns” and bump stocks, a mandatory license for gun dealers, and a new move to grant courts power to seize weapons from someone flagged as a danger to themselves or others.

“Do we have to wait until a Parkland happens in Illinois for us to take action or for us to take ownership of it,” Senator Julie Morrison (D-Deerfield) asked. “There is no reason for anyone to have an assault weapon. There just isn’t. It’s a military grade gun. It is not used for protection. It is not used for hunting. We need to ban those and let communities start piece-by-piece doing that until the federal government to figure out how they’re going to do it at the national level.”

Former NRA lobbyist Todd Vandermyde, who now represents gun dealers, opposes a ban on assault weapons and says he uses an AR-15 to hunt deer, coyotes and prairie dogs.

“I hope he enjoys eating that meat when it’s all full of bullet holes,” heckled state representative Marty Moylan, a Democrat from the Chicago suburbs. Moylan previously proposed a ban on assault weapons in the House, but it fell flat.

* Press release…

In a response to the massive Equifax data breach, the Illinois Senate Financial Institutions Committee today favorably reported out House Bill 4095 with a unanimous bipartisan vote (8-0). The legislation bars credit reporting agencies from charging consumers a fee to place or lift a freeze on their credit report. The bill, sponsored by Representative Greg Harris, passed with unanimous bipartisan support (109 yes, 0 no) in the House last fall. Senator Bill Cunningham is the Senate sponsor.

“The Equifax data breach impacted approximately half of all Americans, and the most effective way for people to prevent identity theft is to place a freeze on their credit reports,” Attorney General Lisa Madigan said. “But people should not have to pay for credit freezes, particularly when they cannot choose whether to do business with the credit reporting agencies.”

A credit freeze prevents new account identity theft by stopping credit reporting agencies from sharing a consumer’s credit report with potential new creditors. Most creditors will not issue new credit to a customer without a credit report from at least one of the big three credit reporting agencies. Credit monitoring services, often peddled to consumers in the wake of data breaches, provide inferior protection: they only alert consumers once identity theft has occurred.

“Making credit freezes free for all Illinois residents is the first of multiple steps the General Assembly should take to respond to the Equifax breach, which placed an estimated 5.4 million Illinois residents at heightened risk of identity theft,” said Illinois PIRG Director Abe Scarr.

House Bill 4095 makes it easier for consumers to protect themselves from identity theft by eliminating the fees charged by credit reporting agencies to place or lift a freeze on their credit report. Current state law allows credit reporting agencies to charge consumers $10 to freeze or thaw their credit report; fees are currently waived for residents 65 and older, active service members, and victims of identity theft with a police report. Indiana, Maine, North Carolina and South Carolina already allow all residents to freeze and thaw their credit reports for free. Illinois is on track to be the first state to revise credit freezelaws in response to the Equifax breach.

In written testimony provided to the committee, Illinois PIRG suggested further policy changes the General Assembly should consider, including making credit reports frozen by default, creating a one-stop shop where consumers can freeze their report with the three major credit reporting agencies at once, and shortening the time credit reporting agencies have to respond to a freeze request from days to minutes.

The free credit freeze legislation is supported by Attorney General Lisa Madigan, AARP Illinois, Center for Changing Lives, Citizen Action Illinois, Digital Privacy Alliance, Heartland Alliance, Housing Action Illinois, Illinois PIRG, Navicore Solutions, Working Credit and Woodstock Institute.

* WCIA

In times of emergency, hospitals are where we go to feel safe and get help. But, some say lax security could turn them from safe havens to crime scenes.

Now, one lawmaker wants every hospital in the state to use metal detectors to keep all weapons out. It’s unfortunate the lengths we have to go to, but it’s a reminder of the day and age we live in.

The legislation was filed before last week’s shooting in Florida. It’s to protect nurses and other healthcare workers from acts of violence. Now, in the wake of Florida’s shooting, the bill’s sponsor says it’s needed now more than ever.

Whether you’re fighting a cold or fighting for your life, hospitals are there with open doors, 24/7. But, that open door policy is becoming a point of concern.

“It’s hard to know exactly who’s coming into the hospital and exactly what they may have on them.”

posted by Rich Miller
Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 2:24 pm

Comments

  1. ===…he uses an AR-15 to hunt deer,…===

    I’m pretty sure that’s illegal in Illinois.

    Comment by 47th Ward Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 2:27 pm

  2. definitely illegal to use the AR on deer.

    Comment by Homer J. Quinn Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 2:29 pm

  3. An AR-15 to hunt deer? C’mon.

    Comment by Albany Park Patriot Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 2:29 pm

  4. Todd always was considered one of the more call pro-gun people, but ever since he lost his last gig, he seems to have gone a bit off the deep end.

    Using an AR shoot prairie dogs? Isn’t the bullet about as big as one? It is laughable, and as a lobbyist, you never want to be a joke.

    Comment by Gooner Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 2:34 pm

  5. And cute little prairie dogs? The NRA didn’t gain my support from that one.

    Comment by A Jack Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 2:37 pm

  6. The ER security point is also interesting. I don’t necessarily see metal detectors as practical (You are having a stroke? Walk through this first!) but it would be good to see funding for increased ER security.

    Unfortunately due to some heart issues, I’ve spent a bit of time in ERs, and you do wonder about security, particularly in Chicago where gun shot victims are being brought. I’ve looked at people following the victims in and have wondered.

    The bill is something worth considering in some form.

    Comment by Gooner Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 2:37 pm

  7. –Former NRA lobbyist Todd Vandermyde, who now represents gun dealers, opposes a ban on assault weapons and says he uses an AR-15 to hunt deer, coyotes and prairie dogs.–

    U of I extension says no prairie dogs in Illinois, probably a squirrel.

    For argument’s sake, what’s left of a “prairie dog” when you hit it with a AR-15 cartridge? Grease slick?

    But let’s give the importance of Todd’s rodent hunting hobby all the weight it deserves going forward on this issue.

    http://web.extension.illinois.edu/askextension/thisQuestion.cfm?ThreadID=14880&catID=214&AskSiteID=90

    Comment by wordslinger Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 2:38 pm

  8. But the no fee for a credit freeze is a winner.

    Comment by A Jack Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 2:39 pm

  9. “In times of emergency, hospitals are where we go to feel safe and get help. But, some say lax security could turn them from safe havens to crime scenes.”

    And further down the process map, funeral processions and cemeteries have also turned into crime scenes.

    Comment by City Zen Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 2:40 pm

  10. Pro-life Republicans placing their love of firearms above the sanctity of life…

    Comment by Scamp640 Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 2:42 pm

  11. –And further down the process map, funeral processions and cemeteries have also turned into crime scenes.–

    What cable show do you watch all day that brings the news on this outbreak of crime scenes at hospitals, funeral processions and cemeteries?

    Does that help you get your mind off all the shootings at schools?

    Comment by wordslinger Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 2:47 pm

  12. have not checked the hunting rules lately in Illinois, but I thought that once upon a time the only animals one could use an AR-15 to spray were coyotes. and that was the argument way back then for why they were “needed,” because “protect my ranch.” every elected official who supports this nonsense from Todd, you deserve a red mark next to your name.

    Comment by Amalia Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 2:52 pm

  13. == Democrats are escalating their calls for a series new statewide gun control measures … ==

    Compared to most States, Illinois is a leader in gun regulation.

    And I will be interested to see what is proposed to solve the multiple problems in Chicago that the criminals will comply with.

    Comment by RNUG Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 3:00 pm

  14. == Isn’t the bullet about as big as one? ==

    In the past, I hunted squirrel and rabbit with a .22 rifle. Assuming Todd is referring to the standard for an AR-15, that is a .223. No real difference.

    == could use an AR-15 to spray … ==

    An AR-15 only fires one bullet per trigger pull, just like any other rifle. How is that “spraying” ?

    Comment by RNUG Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 3:06 pm

  15. Fyi on the Todd hunting thing. The cartridge fired in the ar-15 is a .223/5.56mm which was originally designed to shoot varmints like Ground hogs, prairie dogs, coyotes, etc. It’s the same diameter as a .22lr & about 2x as heavy it does travel at a higher velocity. It’s one of smallest available centerfire rifle cartridge. You’re free to disagree w him, of course, but his caliber choice for the varmints is appropriate. (Though I’d say a bit small for deer in rifle states, & I personally would never use it on a deer)

    Amalia you can use a center fire rifle on non deer mammals & fur bearers, such as ground hogs, skunk, coyote, raccoon, fox etc. I tried to find a DNR link but all they had was the pdf hunting guide.

    Comment by Mason born Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 3:10 pm

  16. But have no fear. We are home of the FOID card.

    Comment by Blue dog dem Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 3:10 pm

  17. ==No real difference.==

    I understand what you are saying as far as the bullets go, but with due respect nobody is altering a .22 to turn it into an automatic (or nearly automatic) weapon. I don’t see any legitimate need to have an AR-15.

    Comment by Demoralized Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 3:15 pm

  18. Advisory referenda are a joke. Does any other state have them?

    Madigan & pals could have raised the minimum wage while Quinn was Governor. Instead they decided to use it as an advisory referendum issue to gin up turnout. Stupid.

    Comment by Grand Avenue Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 3:21 pm

  19. == nobody is altering a .22 to turn it into an automatic (or nearly automatic) weapon. ==

    And modifying it to fully automatic is against federal law.

    Comment by RNUG Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 3:22 pm

  20. –And I will be interested to see what is proposed to solve the multiple problems in Chicago that the criminals will comply with.–

    RNUG, that’s an argument against any laws. By definition, criminals don’t comply with the law.

    Comment by wordslinger Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 3:23 pm

  21. -word-

    I know. Guess my Libertarian leanings are showing.

    But my (unwritten) point is that laws without enforcement don’t work. Until they solve the problem of enforcement, more laws won’t matter.

    Comment by RNUG Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 3:29 pm

  22. Something I’m curious of that I can’t seem to find on Google is how many prosecutions the state has pursued over the requirement to verify FOIDS are valid. One problem we have is a reluctance to prosecute Straw Buyers by feds, a straw buyer should also be violating the FOID law, is the State prosecuting?

    Comment by Mason born Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 3:36 pm

  23. == i don’t see any other any legitimate need to have an AR-15

    Since the AR-15 is a semi-automatic rifle that shoots essentially a .22 cal bullet, I suppose there is no legitimate need for a Ruger 10/22 semi-automatic as well? What about a Marlin-Glenfield semi-auto .22? What about .22 Magnum semi-auto? Magnum sounds big so those must be scary too. While we are at it, what about a mini-14? It’s a semi-automatic carbine that shoots the same same round as the Armalite Rifle. The AR type semi-auto rifle is used in home defense, sport and target shooting and for some hunting applications. It’s easy to shoot, accurate, reliable, simple to maintain and the ammo is plentiful and inexpensive.
    Banning the AR-15 will not prevent mass shootings. Some other weapon will be used instead. The Virginia Tech shooter used semi-automatic pistols with 10 round magazines. A determined shooter could cause considerable damage with a
    pump shotgun with the plug removed and loaded up with double aught shells and a couple of handguns, especially in a gun free zone like a school.

    Comment by Former Hillrod Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 3:47 pm

  24. “Former NRA lobbyist Todd Vandermyde, who now represents gun dealers, opposes a ban on assault weapons and says he uses an AR-15 to hunt deer, coyotes and prairie dogs.”

    Prairie dogs don’t live east of the Mississippi.

    This man is asking us to prioritize his gun hobby when he literally doesn’t know what he’s shooting at.

    – MrJM

    Comment by @misterjayem Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 3:52 pm

  25. People do travel to other states to hunt.

    Comment by Phenomynous Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 4:02 pm

  26. Why would any state want to legalize cannabis?

    Oh yeah….

    Comment by 33 ward Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 4:11 pm

  27. ===Former NRA lobbyist Todd Vandermyde, who now represents gun dealers, opposes a ban on assault weapons and says he uses an AR-15 to hunt deer, coyotes and prairie dogs.===

    On what planet?

    Comment by Nick Name Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 4:15 pm

  28. ===People do travel to other states to hunt.===

    Of course they do. But not too many get their kicks by taking a safari to the Dakotas to shoot nuisance animals for sport.

    But if Todd hasn’t already been, I’d recommend this place:

    https://www.buffalobutte.com/prairie-dog-hunting/

    Comment by 47th Ward Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 4:18 pm

  29. ==The AR type semi-auto rifle is used in home defense==

    If you have an AR-15 hidden under your pillow for home defense then I think we have a bigger problem.

    Comment by Demoralized Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 4:18 pm

  30. ==Magnum sounds big so those must be scary too==

    And stop being a victim. Nobody used any of those words. You are they type of person who makes it impossible to have any sort of serious discussion on the gun issue.

    Comment by Demoralized Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 4:21 pm

  31. ==If you have an AR-15 hidden under your pillow for home defense then I think we have a bigger problem. ==

    And small…hands.

    Comment by Cheryl44 Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 4:22 pm

  32. ===People do travel to other states to hunt. ===

    Not taking a position here, but why should we design our state’s laws to cater to people who want to hunt in other states?

    Comment by Rich Miller Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 4:22 pm

  33. ===And small…hands. ===

    And a sore head.

    Comment by Rich Miller Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 4:23 pm

  34. Maybe in Todd Vandermyde’s world, the deer, coyotes, and prairie dogs shoot back.

    Comment by Nick Name Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 4:35 pm

  35. I neither own nor want an AR-15. I have shotguns for hunting and self defense. If I were to hunt in states where rifles made sense, I can use some I keep mainly for sentimental reasons.

    If the state bans particular weapons, is it required to buy them at market value? When Roosevelt banned the hoarding of gold. He had to pay for it. How would this not be a taking?

    Comment by Last Bull Moose i Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 4:40 pm

  36. From reading this thread I’ve determined that most of the people writing have never been to a shooting range and fired a rifle. I enjoy testing my skill at shooting at targets at 100 and plus yards.
    Some years ago I suggested on this blog that I would like to take some of the commenters to a gun range. Rich threaten to bar me. All I wanted them to do was test their skill and see if they would enjoy the sport. Listen, look and experience before you jump.
    Recently a fellow hunting coyotes in West Central IL with an AR15 filled his bobcat tag with the rifle.

    Comment by Hickory Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 4:59 pm

  37. –I enjoy testing my skill at shooting at targets at 100 and plus yards.–

    That’s terrific.

    In the context of the debate over the weapon of choice for those who commit mass murder at schools, churches and concerts, that should get all the weight it deserves.

    Or did you think this discussion just came out of nowhere.

    Comment by wordslinger Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 5:49 pm

  38. How about a ban on magazines over 7 rounds.

    Comment by Blue dog dem Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 6:20 pm

  39. BDD. I have some tubular rimfire rifles that hold more than 7 rounds. Have these suddenly become assault rifles?

    I could agree to a ban on anything that could be easily converted to full automatic. But there should be a buyback program for those. That would be expensive.

    Comment by Last Bull Moose Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 7:30 pm

  40. LBM. I understand. No confiscation. But no new magazines produced. Everything going forward can be limited. Just an idea.

    Comment by Blue dog dem Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 7:52 pm

  41. Advsiory referanda for recreational marijuana is on my Cook County non-partisan primary ballot.

    The 2nd Amendment right to keep and bear arms isn’t about NEED. There is no “need test” in either the Illinois or U.S. Constitutions. That prairie dog (argument) won’t hunt. Nor will banning or limiting anything to make people feel better. By the same logical argument, cars should be banned because mentally ill or criminal people do bad things with cars. Nobody “needs” cars either. And remember, far more people die every year in auto accidents…including children, yet there is no hue and cry we can only have 4-cylinder cars. If you want to argue, go look up the stats on deaths from guns versus vehicles. We can do so much more to increase mental health services that would do much more good than passing Constitutionally-infringing useless laws.

    Comment by revvedup Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 8:43 pm

  42. revvedup,

    In reality, many vehicle options are banned for being too dangerous. Hence, the concept “street legal.”

    Beyond that, the state routinely pulls drivers’ licenses from people deemed unable to handle a vehicle.

    Comment by Gooner Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 8:50 pm

  43. thank god for the second amendment

    Comment by anon Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 9:09 pm

  44. Yes

    Comment by Blue dog dem Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 9:12 pm

  45. wordslinger- Actually despite your comment about cable news, shots fired during gang funerals is becoming fairly common in the Chicagoland area. In December the Hillside police chief rammed his squad into a shooter’s vehicle taking part in a gang funeral procession. I believe either ABC or WGN did a story about such incidents last week.

    Comment by West Side the Best Sidew Wednesday, Feb 21, 18 @ 11:00 pm

  46. ==Constitutionally-infringing==

    ==thank god for the second amendment==

    There is no right in the Constitution that is absolute. This mantra that you can’t do anything with guns is bogus. What those “anythings” are I don’t know but enough with the argument that the 2nd Amendment is absolute.

    Comment by Demoralized Thursday, Feb 22, 18 @ 7:58 am

  47. –wordslinger- Actually despite your comment about cable news, shots fired during gang funerals is becoming fairly common in the Chicagoland area. In December the Hillside police chief rammed his squad into a shooter’s vehicle taking part in a gang funeral procession.–

    Yes, I remember that. And there was a single shot fired into a grave in Hillside in February.

    That’s two. Guess how many school shootings there have been since then.

    Comment by wordslinger Thursday, Feb 22, 18 @ 8:15 am

  48. –thank god for the second amendment–

    Did you mean 2nd Commandment? The one about not worshiping inanimate objects? Might want to check the sixth one, too.

    Comment by wordslinger Thursday, Feb 22, 18 @ 8:20 am

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