Story thread · 2 reports / 2 sources

State bill would make gunmakers pay if their weapons are recovered in shootings

wbez.org · 6dShare

A first-of-its-kind state law would force gun manufacturers to pay for a portion of the financial toll of gun violence in Illinois. Gun violence costs the state about $20 billion annually, according to estimates based on data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. That figure includes direct costs like emergency services, medical care, law enforcement resources and funeral expenses. It also includes indirect costs like mental health treatment, loss of income and childcare. The Responsibility in Firearms Legislation Act , a bill coming before the Illinois General Assembly, would require gunmakers to contribute to a state fund that would help offset the costs shouldered by taxpayers and the individuals directly affected by a shooting. If passed, the law would be a first of its kind in the country. Other states have considered similar bills, but none have become law. "Name another industry in this country that gets to sell a product, profit from the damage it does and p

First report: State bill would make gunmakers pay if their weapons are recovered in shootings — suntimes.com, 6d