Several weeks ago, Governor Quinn signed Senate Bill 1589 into law, which is aimed at reducing gun violence in Illinois.

Felons convicted of new weapons offenses will be sent to prison for two to ten years and cannot be sentenced to probation. Additional violations may increase the sentencing for three to fourteen years.

The defendant must be previously convicted of a felony. The bill came about following the death of Chicago Police Officer and Iraq War veteran, Thomas Wortham, who was shot outside of his family home by suspects who had previously been convicted of gun charges. The law takes effect January 1, 2012.

Does anyone really think a law like this will make a difference?

It was already a crime for felons to have firearms.

Cook County has catch-n-release justice.  In order for a law like this to be effective, the DA must CHARGE THE OFFENDERS.  The charges get negotiated, and often the gun offenses are not prosecuted.