Illinois House Bill HR0349

Illinois 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/13/23
• Refer: 10/24/23

Caption

GUN VIOLENCE AWARENESS DAY

Impact

By establishing Gun Violence Awareness Day, HR0349 seeks to mobilize local communities and individuals to address the pressing issue of gun violence actively. It aims to enhance public acknowledgment of the consequences of gun violence and encourages citizens to engage in initiatives that support gun safety and responsible ownership. The resolution commemorates victims such as Hadiya Pendleton, whose tragic death has become a symbol in the fight against gun violence victims and survivors across the nation.

Summary

HR0349 is a resolution declaring June 2, 2023, as 'Gun Violence Awareness Day' in the State of Illinois. The resolution underscores the significant impact of gun violence in the United States, highlighting that over 120 Americans are killed daily due to gun violence, with over 200 others injured. It presents startling statistics about the prevalence of gun homicides in Illinois, which not only rank high in gun deaths but also incur substantial costs to the state and taxpayers due to the crisis. The resolution emphasizes the critical need for public safety measures in communities, intertwining the protection of Second Amendment rights with preventing access to firearms for individuals deemed unfit to possess them.

Contention

While HR0349 serves as a symbolic act of recognition and solidarity with victims of gun violence, it brings forth discussions around the effectiveness of such awareness initiatives. Proponents argue that heightened awareness is essential in combating violence and fostering community involvement. However, critics may question whether mere awareness can lead to significant policy changes or actionable solutions addressing the systemic issues contributing to gun violence. This resolution's impact will likely depend on the follow-up actions taken by communities and lawmakers to translate awareness into concrete preventive measures.