Illinois House Bill HB1041

Illinois 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/25
• Refer: 1/9/25

Caption

CRIM CD-PEACE OFFICER FORCE

Impact

The implications of HB1041 on state laws are particularly notable in the context of ongoing national discussions concerning police reform and use of force standards. By allowing for more leniency in how non-lethal projectiles can be used, the law could alter the dynamics of police engagements with the public, especially in high-tension situations such as protests or riots. Critics may argue that this could lead to an increase in instances of excessive force, reversing progress made in recent years towards more stringent regulations on police conduct.

Summary

House Bill 1041 proposes an amendment to the Illinois Criminal Code of 2012, centered on the use of force by peace officers. The most significant change the bill proposes is the removal of specific prohibitions regarding the discharge of kinetic impact projectiles or other non-lethal projectiles targeting certain areas of the body. This deletion raises concerns about the implications it may have for policing tactics and accountability during law enforcement operations. The bill suggests broader discretion for officers in the use of force, particularly in situations where such measures may be deemed necessary.

Contention

The bill is expected to face scrutiny from various advocacy groups and organizations focused on civil rights and police accountability. These stakeholders are likely to argue that the reinterpretation of the allowable use of kinetic projectiles may undermine efforts to limit excessive use of force, particularly in historically marginalized communities. There may also be implications for the legal ramifications peace officers face if accusations of misconduct arise, sparking debates on public safety versus the rights of individuals.