Gov. Rauner Veto of SB1657
At the start of the week, Governor Bruce Rauner vetoed controversial legislation that would have required gun stores to be licensed by the state, calling it "unnecessary, burdensome regulation."
Sen. Schimpf agreed with Gov. Rauner’s veto.
“I’m glad Governor Rauner vetoed SB1657. This bill was an expansive government overreach at a time when we should be scaling government back,” said Schimpf. “This bill would hurt our Southern Illinois firearms dealers while exempting the big box stores from its onerous regulations.”
Schimpf noted that he has now voted against SB1657 five times and will oppose any attempt to override the governor’s veto.
Senate Passes Three House Bills Pertaining to Firearms
The Senate passed three gun control bills that had previously been approved by the Illinois House on Wednesday, March 14. The bills establish waiting periods for the purchase of certain firearms and prohibit individuals less than 21 years of age from possessing those same weapons. Lastly, another bill outlawed “bump stocks” and “trigger cranks.”
Sen. Schimpf voted, “No” on all three bills, keeping his repeated promise to protect the Second Amendment rights of his constituents.
Following adjournment, Sen. Schimpf was interviewed about his votes and his position on the bills. The video can be viewed here: facebook.com/senatorschimpf
In his Facebook Live Video he stated the following:
“Two of [the bills] were just outright gun confiscation bills and unfortunately those bills are not going to make our children safer; they’re not going to make our schools safer; they’re not going to keep people who have mental illness from having guns.”
Eight for ‘18 Legislation
Also on Wednesday, March 14, Senate Bill 3307 advanced out of the state government committee. The legislation would require the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) to complete strategic planning studies on the mission and utilization of the World Shooting and Recreational Complex in Sparta and Pyramid State Park in Perry County. The bill will now await final action on the Senate floor.
“I’m glad to see this bill moving forward,” said Schimpf. “These two facilities have the potential to serve as strong economic drivers for our region.”
Art Contest Underway
Art students from high schools across Illinois Senate District 58 are encouraged to participate in Senator Paul Schimpf’s “Celebrate the State” Illinois Bicentennial Art Competition. The contest runs through April 24.
Participating students are encouraged to create an original piece of artwork featuring what Illinois pride and culture means to them. The contest is a way for students to recognize the significance of Illinois’ Bicentennial celebration and exhibit their pride for the State of Illinois.
“Art competitions educate and inspire our youth,” said Schimpf. “The arts open the door to creativity and confidence and are proven to enhance students’ academic performance.”
Winning artwork will go on display in Sen. Schimpf’s capitol and district offices for the remainder of the year.
Contact Karri Nichols via email at labryantschimpf17@gmail.com or by phone at 618-242-8115 if you need more information about the contest.
Honorary Page for A Day
Sen. Schimpf introduced two guests on the Senate Floor on Wednesday, March 14, as part of his Honorary Page for a Day Program.
Jacob Fedderke and Chase Ehlers (right) are both seniors from Steeleville High School in Steeleville. The students are staying in Illinois for their higher education.