More Illinois Counties Moving Forward With Gun Sanctuary Status; Mercer County Board Already On Board

A gun-rights group and a gun-control coalition are reacting to a growing number of so-called gun sanctuary counties in Illinois. And Mercer County is one of those counties. The Belleville News-Democrat reports 26 of Illinois’ 102 counties now have some resolution making the jurisdiction a safe haven for law abiding gun owners. Mark Walsh from the Illinois Council Against Handgun Violence which supports gun control legislation tells the Illinois Radio Network his coalition is reacting.

Illinois State Rifle Association Executive Director Richard Pearson says those pushing for the sanctuary resolutions are a reaction to gun legislation from gun-control groups.

Pearson says he expects another 14 counties to consider similar provisions or resolutions in the coming months. The Mercer County Board passed the gun sanctuary resolution earlier this month.