© 2024 WSIU Public Broadcasting
WSIU Public Broadcasting
Member-Supported Public Media from Southern Illinois University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Phelps Introduces Bill Allowing Gun Silencers

Hunters and other gun owners would be allowed to use silencers under a bill filed in the Illinois legislature.

The Belleville News-Democrat reports the measure would lift a restriction prohibiting the use of silencer for those with a valid Firearm Owner's Identification Card.

The bill's sponsor is Representative Brandon Phelps. The Democrat from Harrisburg says gun owners want silencers to avoid hearing loss. Phelps acknowledges not everyone is going to support the use of the noise-reducing devices.

Mark Walsh of the Illinois Council Against Handgun Violence says about 1,000 die annually in this state from gunshots and allowing silencers ``is a bad policy.''

A similar measure has been filed in the Senate.
 

As a WSIU donor, you don’t simply watch or listen to public media programs, you are a partner. By making a gift, you help WSIU produce, purchase, and broadcast programs you care about and enjoy – every day of the year.