Illinois Valley Times

Ryan Spain, House Rep. of Illinois House of Representatives, Illinois General Assembly, spoke during a Joint Committee on Administrative Rules subject matter hearing on Oct. 17th. Spain addressed the ongoing discussions surrounding emergency rules and the need for further clarification on the topic.

During the hearing, Spain stated, "We've had a lot of discussion on this topic as a committee. We've received many, many questions on this topic as members of JCAR. We could be here all day and night going through each one of these questions seeking answers from the Illinois state police." He emphasized the importance of finding resolutions to the areas of ambiguity and detailed questions raised by the committee.

Rather than individually addressing each question, Spain mentioned that discussions have taken place with the state police representatives present at the hearing. He highlighted their understanding of the committee's concerns and their willingness to respond to the questions generated by the committee. Additionally, the state police have agreed to hold additional hearings about the permanent rulemaking associated with the topic.

Spain assured that the discussions would continue in the future, stating, "We have a lot of discussions that will continue to take place." He announced that the JCAR would be meeting again in November in Springfield and then again in Chicago in December. It is expected that there will be further clarification and continued discussion on this topic.

In related factoids, it is mentioned that Ryan Spain has been representing the 73rd District since 2017. Before his tenure in the state legislature, he served on the Peoria City Council. Additionally, the emergency rule discussed in the hearing was filed by the Illinois State Police to implement the Protect Illinois Communities Act, which was signed into law by Gov. J.B. Pritzker in January. The law regulates the sale and distribution of assault weapons. Furthermore, the law stipulates that individuals who possess assault weapons or their attachments must submit an endorsement affidavit through the Firearm Owner's Identification Card account before Jan. 1.