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WNIJ's summary of news items around our state.

Illinois Lawmakers Split On Gun Laws After Mass Shooting In Vegas

FLICKR User Jim Bowen

Illinois politicians continue reacting to Sunday’s mass shooting in Las Vegas, but responses are falling down party lines.

As happens with just about every mass shooting, and the more routine violence that plagues parts of cities like Chicago, Democrats say it shows the need for tighter gun laws.

Illinois U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin says military-grade weapons should not be considered normal.

But Republicans prefer to set aside those conversation, which is what Gov. Bruce Rauner did when asked whether he would support a so-called assault weapons ban.

“Today I’m not going to get into specific policies,” he said. “I think all of us should take a moment to remember and to keep the victims and their families in our thoughts and prayers.”

Rauner did say mental illness is a challenge in our society, and hopes to “talk further” about what can be done to keep people safe.

Brian Mackey formerly reported on state government and politics for NPR Illinois and a dozen other public radio stations across the state. Before that, he was A&E editor at The State Journal-Register and Statehouse bureau chief for the Chicago Daily Law Bulletin.
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