Substitute House Bill No. 6859, also known as Public Act No. 25-157, introduces comprehensive amendments to laws concerning firearms, security officers, and school safety. The bill repeals and replaces Section 54-36n, which requires law enforcement agencies to trace seized firearms, and clarifies the definition of "law enforcement agency" to include various police departments. It mandates the use of the electronic tracing system "eTrace" for submitting firearm information and updates the process for firearm transfers, requiring a transfer document and a national instant criminal background check. Additionally, the bill establishes new training and permit requirements for security officers carrying firearms, prohibits individuals with certain criminal convictions from becoming instructors, and introduces stricter regulations for the sale and transfer of firearms, including age restrictions and safety measures like trigger locks.

Furthermore, the bill creates a competitive grant program for school security infrastructure improvements, prioritizing schools with the greatest need and allowing for reimbursement of security-related expenses. It also modifies the structure of the Fire Marshal Training Council and the Commission on Fire Prevention and Control, streamlining their operations and membership. The bill emphasizes the importance of collaboration with local first responders in developing emergency plans for schools and authorizes the State Bond Commission to issue bonds for funding these security projects. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance public safety through improved firearm regulations and school security measures while ensuring that individuals involved in security and firearm instruction meet specific qualifications.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 54-36n, 29-161z, 29-161q, 53-206, 29-33, 29-37a, 54-66a
PS Joint Favorable Substitute: 54-36n, 29-161z, 29-161q, 53-206, 29-33, 29-37a, 54-66a
File No. 455: 54-36n, 29-161z, 29-161q, 53-206, 29-33, 29-37a, 54-66a
APP Joint Favorable: 54-36n, 29-161z, 29-161q, 53-206, 29-33, 29-37a, 54-66a
Public Act No. 25-157: 54-36n, 29-161z, 29-161q, 53-206, 29-33, 29-37a, 54-66a, 29-298a, 7-323k