Illinois concealed-carry permit applications declining

SHARE Illinois concealed-carry permit applications declining
concealed3_3.jpg

uthorities say applications for concealed-carry permits have been generally declining in Illinois since the program launched three years ago. | Getty Images

SPRINGFIELD — Authorities say applications for concealed-carry permits have been generally declining in Illinois since the program launched three years ago.

Numbers provided by the Illinois State Police show nearly 104,000 people applied for the permits in 2014, and about 32,900 have applied so far this year, the State Journal-Register reported. There was an increase between 2015, when 60,000 applied, and last year, which logged 76,000 applications.

Western Illinois University professor Todd Lough cites several likely reasons for the decline, including that the strongest supporters applied as soon they could. Another factor: the election of Republican President Donald Trump and a GOP-controlled Congress viewed as more gun-friendly and less likely enact gun restrictions.

Lough says the limited number of places where people can carry concealed weapons also plays a role.

The Latest
Chances are, if you live in an American city, particularly in the South — the most violent part of the country since forever — these things are familiar to you.
For the first time since 2019, the water taxi will offer daily service between Ogilvie and Union stations, Michigan Avenue and Chinatown.
Busch found an unconventional way to score in the loss to the Rangers.
The acquisition of Tamarack Farms makes Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge a more impactful destination and creates within Hackmatack a major macrosite for conservation.
The man was found unresponsive in an alley in the 10700 block of South Lowe Avenue, police said.