SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Celina Villanueva advanced a measure that would ensure survivors of domestic violence are fully protected and current state law supporting victims is properly enforced.
“It has been proven time and time again that when an abuser has access to a firearm, it increases the likelihood of domestic violence lethality more than tenfold, which is exactly why I have fought to safeguard victims of domestic violence in Illinois by allowing for the confiscation of an abuser’s firearms,” said Villanueva (D-Chicago). “However, our work is far from over, and this measure is one more step we can take to ensure the safety of Illinoisans – especially women and children – is taken seriously by our state’s justice system.”
Senate Bill 3329 would solidify protections for victims of domestic violence under Karina’s Law. Signed into law in February 2025, Karina’s Law addresses the growing concern surrounding firearms and domestic violence by clarifying and strengthening the law around orders of protection, requiring law enforcement to remove firearms from individuals subject to emergency restraining orders within 96 hours of a judge issuing an order revoking the individual’s FOID card.
Villanueva’s measure would build on Karina’s Law. First, the bill would prohibit any third-party individual from knowingly transferring a firearm to a respondent in an order of protection action, or allowing the respondent access to a firearm. It would also require law enforcement to take reasonable steps to notify petitioners of domestic violence cases if the agency seeks to correct or nullify a search warrant for a respondent’s firearms.
“The safety of our residents must come first, and by advancing this measure, we’re making it clear to survivors and abusers alike that lawmakers in Illinois stand on the side of justice – for Karina, for her daughter Daniela and for every single other victim of domestic violence,” Villanueva added.
Senate Bill 3329 passed the Senate Wednesday and heads to the House for further consideration.
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