Emanuel proposes bill for
statewide gun registration

CHICAGO – Mayor Rahm Emanuel proposed statewide legislation Thursday to require handgun owners to register their weapons, calling it a common sense measure that would protect the rights of responsible owners while keeping illegal firearms off the streets.

Chicago requires handgun owners to register their guns with police, but Illinois does not. A statewide registry would help the Chicago Police Department follow the chain of possession for guns found at Chicago crime scenes that originate in other parts of Illinois according to the mayor’s office. It is also aimed at reducing the transfer of illegal firearms.