HB597:

Concealed handgun permits; change certain penalties.

Bill Summary:

Concealed handgun permits; penalties. Changes
the penalty for a first violation of carrying a concealed weapon
without a permit from a Class 1 misdemeanor to a civil penalty of
not more than $100, a second violation from a Class 6 felony to a
civil penalty of not more than $500, and a third or subsequent violation
from a Class 5 felony to a civil penalty of not more than $1,000.
The bill also provides that a person, unless otherwise disqualified,
shall not be precluded from applying for a concealed handgun permit
during the pendency of the proceedings for a violation. If such person
is issued a valid concealed handgun permit while a charge is pending,
he may offer such permit to the court and the court may dismiss the
charge.