Illinois sheriffs back concealed carry of guns, with limits

St. Louis Post Dispatch reports:

Support for allowing concealed carry of firearms in Illinois — one of just two states that still outlaw it — is coming from what seems like an unlikely direction: the Illinois Sheriffs' Association.

The group, for the first time in its history, is taking a qualified stand in favor of the controversial practice.

State Rep. John Bradley, D-Marion, proposed a bill (HB245) last week that would allow residents to obtain concealed firearm permits. It would require background checks and training in handgun use, safety and marksmanship. Similar bills have been introduced in the past, and died with little support.

No word yet from Mayor Daley on this one.