Oswego Reacts to Illinois' New Conceal Carry Law

Illinois officially legalized private carrying of concealed guns on Tuesday as both houses of the legislature voted convincingly to override Gov. Pat Quinn's veto: the House by 77-31, and the Senate by 41-17.

The new legislation requires a background check and 16 hours of firearms training to purchase a $150 five-year concealed-carry license; as a "shall-issue" law, Illinois State Police must grant the license to anyone with those credentials.

Illinois faced a Tuesday deadline to adopt a concealed-carry provision after a federal appeals court ruled in December 2012 that the state's ban on concealed-carry was unconstitutional.

Oswego Patch readers took to our Facebook page to give their reaction to the legislation. Here's just some of what they had to say:

• Juan G. I believe in protecting my self and my family and not rely on someone else. Not to mention it is our right. It's why our veterans fought for and are currently fighting for. For those of you that think is STUPID don't get one you are not being forced
• Dan S. Last state in the country to enact this should tell you something. Not one state has repealed their CCW. Why? Because it works.
• Kim F. Actually it makes me want to stay home. Now when we see someone with a gun, are they about to to the place? Or are they just excersizing their right to carry the gun? Wr may as well just live in the old west. Why have low enforcement we can take care of people ourselves now and just say it was self defense. Awesome
• Dodie W. Maybe now the thugs will think twice. They won't know if the guy they are messing with has a gun!
• Aubrey D. Dislike 100%
• Jeremiah F. I think it's great. It'll make people think twice, not knowing who has firepower on them. It annoys the heck outta me that people trust more in "our GOVERNMENT" then civilians/neighbors or even themselves for protection...
• Forrest M. I had my conceal carry license when I lived in Kentucky. Guess what people....I never shot anyone! This is so long overdue it is ridiculous. Today is a good day in Illinois!
• Deanna T. Getting the proper training to enact CCW takes a minimum of 16 hours of hardcore training. Safety, safety, safety is taught throughout this training. As someone that is trained, you understand how crucial this training is and how people who don't have this training (most criminals) are dangerous. People are most afraid of what they don't know. Not knowing how to properly handle a firearm and being in the presence of one is scary. Even more reason to learn about them. There will always be guns. Bad guys will always find them. Why not allow the good guys to protect themselves or maybe someone else in danger?
• Jennifer R. It's about time!!!
• William H. $150 for the permit, 16 hours of firearms training, and not allowed on public transportation, I wonder how many people will jump through these hoops?
• Cassie P. For all of you that find it "stupid" or "unsafe" or you just dont like- its good for you that no one is forcing you to carry one, but I bet you'll want one if you ever find yourself in a situation where you need to protect yourself or your family. Sure you can call the police but I hope you have 15 min to spare waiting for them. 
• Concealed carry means just that concealed. Also for the people that dont want guns in the wrong hands- do you think it was difficult for them to get their hands on guns before concealed carry? No. Have some intelligence. I feel safe knowing I dont have to rely on someone else protecting me if its ever needed. It's about time!
• Debbie B. I am outraged !!! people are going to kill outers when there are issues !! wake up people . I refuse to walk the streets when knowing someone might have a gun on them !!!

Now it's your turn. What do you think of Illinois' new Conceal Carry law? Will it make us safer or does it invite more gun violence? Tell us in the comments section below.