Illinois lawmakers have introduced several significant firearm‑related bills in the 2025–2026 legislative session. Whether you’re a responsible gun owner, a concealed carry licensee, or an FFL operating in Illinois, these proposals could directly impact how you store firearms, purchase firearms, and carry them in public spaces.
Below is a detailed breakdown of three major bills currently moving through the General Assembly: HB 5320, HB 4471, and HB 3507—along with what each could mean for you.
HB 5320 – Firearm Risk Education in Schools & Mandatory FFL Safety Disclosures
HB 5320 focuses on expanding firearm‑related education in Illinois schools and increasing safety‑related disclosures by licensed firearm dealers.
Key Provisions
Mandatory Firearm Risk Education in Schools
The bill amends the School Code to require that students in grades 6–12 receive instruction on the risks of firearm ownership and usage. This includes safe storage practices and the potential dangers associated with firearms.
Trauma‑Informed Curriculum
The Illinois State Board of Education must develop an age‑appropriate, trauma‑informed curriculum, which may be taught by licensed educators, school nurses, or counselors.
Post‑Lockdown Drill Mental Health Forums
After each lockdown drill, schools must provide a forum for trauma‑informed discussion involving students, parents, and staff to address mental health concerns.
New Requirements for FFLs
The bill amends the Firearm Dealer License Certification Act to require FFLs to provide specific information about the risks of firearms in the home and relevant Illinois laws at the time of purchase.
What This Means for Illinois Gun Owners & FFLs
- Expect more standardized safety education for young people statewide.
- FFLs will need to update their compliance materials, ensuring customers receive mandated safety information during the purchase process.
- This bill emphasizes safe storage, making it even more important for gun owners to maintain secure storage practices.
HB 4471 – The Responsible Firearm Manufacture Act (“GLOCK Act”)
Often referred to informally as the GLOCK Act, HB 4471 targets the manufacture, sale, and possession of convertible pistols—handguns that can be modified into machine guns using switches or similar devices.
Key Provisions
Defines “Convertible Pistols” and “Switches”
The bill amends the Criminal Code to define a convertible pistol as any handgun that can be modified—using a switch or even a common household tool—into a fully automatic weapon.
Criminalizes Manufacture, Sale, Transfer, or Possession
It becomes unlawful to manufacture, sell, offer to sell, purchase, receive, import, or transfer a convertible pistol. Penalties apply.
Machine Gun Definition Expanded
A machine gun now includes any convertible pistol equipped with a switch, broadening the scope of prohibited weapons.
Exemptions & Severability Clause
Certain exemptions apply (e.g., law enforcement), and the bill includes a severability clause to preserve enforceable sections if others are struck down.
What This Means for Illinois Gun Owners & FFLs
- This bill directly targets the rise of GLOCK switches and similar conversion devices.
- FFLs must ensure no inventory includes convertible pistols or parts that could be interpreted as conversion devices.
- Gun owners should be aware that possession of a pistol capable of conversion—even without a switch installed—may become a criminal offense if the bill passes.
HB 3507 – Concealed Carry Restrictions in Cook County Forest Preserves
HB 3507 modifies the Firearm Concealed Carry Act, specifically addressing where concealed carry license holders may carry within the Cook County Forest Preserve District.
Key Provisions
Redefines “Grounds”
The bill defines “grounds” as areas within 75 feet of entrances to prohibited locations or within fenced areas.
Removes Blanket Prohibition
Previously, carrying a firearm anywhere on Cook County Forest Preserve property was prohibited. HB 3507 removes this blanket ban.
Allows Specific Prohibitions
Forest preserve districts may now prohibit firearms in specific areas, including:
- Botanic gardens
- Swimming pools
- Athletic venues
- Picnic groves
- Nature centers
- Pavilions
- Golf courses & driving ranges
- Adventure courses & ziplines
- Equestrian centers
- Exercise venues
- Special events requiring permits
- Right‑of‑Way Exception
Concealed carriers may still carry while traveling along public rights of way that touch or cross forest preserve property.
- Signage Exemption
Forest preserve districts are exempt from certain signage requirements, meaning carriers must know the law rather than rely on posted signs.
What This Means for Concealed Carry Holders
- Concealed carry is no longer universally banned in Cook County forest preserves.
- However, many popular recreational areas may still be designated as gun‑free zones.
- Carriers must stay informed and cautious, especially since signage may not always be present.
Final Thoughts: Staying Compliant in a Changing Legal Landscape
These three bills reflect Illinois’ ongoing efforts to regulate firearm safety, youth education, and public carry in nuanced ways. For responsible gun owners and FFLs, staying informed is essential.
- HB 5320 emphasizes education and safe storage.
- HB 4471 targets illegal conversion devices and expands definitions of prohibited weapons.
- HB 3507 reshapes where concealed carry is permitted in Cook County forest preserves.
As these bills progress, C.O.P.S., Inc. will continue providing updates, compliance guidance, and resources to help Illinois gun owners navigate new requirements responsibly.