Rockford Sun

State Representative John M. Cabello has voiced strong opposition to Senate Bill 8, a proposed gun control measure in Illinois. According to Cabello, the bill unfairly targets lawful gun owners and fails to address crime effectively.

“This is a gun control bill disguised as public safety,” said Rep. Cabello. He argues that the legislation could criminalize gun owners for situations beyond their control and infringe on constitutional rights by adding unnecessary bureaucratic obstacles.

The bill introduces significant penalties for gun owners if their legally owned firearms are accessed by others, even in cases of theft. “Only in Illinois would we hold victims of crime more accountable than the criminals,” Cabello stated. He criticized the potential $10,000 fine imposed on individuals whose firearms are stolen.

Cabello also accused Democrats of prioritizing support from anti-gun groups over common sense solutions. “Instead of enforcing the laws we already have or holding repeat offenders accountable, they’re placing blame on law-abiding citizens and undermining the Second Amendment,” he said.

The House of Representatives passed the legislation with a vote count of 69-40.

For more information or inquiries, Representative Cabello can be contacted at 815-621-2196.

John M. Cabello serves as Assistant Minority Leader and State Representative for Illinois’ 90th House District, which covers areas in Winnebago, Stephenson, and Boone counties including Rockford and Machesney Park among others.