HB0019 (2025): Flamethrower Regulation Under FOID Card Act

What the Bill Would Do

HB0019 would amend the Firearm Owners Identification Card Act to add flamethrowers to the list of items requiring a valid FOID card for acquisition or possession. It would also amend the Criminal Code of 2012 to impose a 72-hour waiting period on flamethrower sales, mirroring the existing waiting period for firearms.

Key provisions:

• Requires a currently valid FOID card to acquire or possess a flamethrower
• Imposes a 72-hour waiting period between purchase application and delivery
• Makes delivery of a flamethrower without the waiting period a Class 4 felony
• Exempts certain military, law enforcement, and other specified persons
• Defines "flamethrower" for purposes of the Firearm Owners Identification Card Act

Sponsors

The bill was introduced by Rep. Daniel Didech (D).

Current Status

HB0019 was pre-filed on December 5, 2024, received its first reading on January 9, 2025, and was referred to the Rules Committee. It was assigned to the Judiciary - Criminal Committee on February 4, 2025, and was re-referred to the Rules Committee under Rule 19(a) on March 21, 2025, which remains the last recorded action on the bill. The 104th General Assembly adjourned on June 1, 2026 until the call of its presiding officers with no further action on the bill. House Rule 15(c) makes all legislative measures pending before the Rules Committee eligible for consideration at any of its meetings. The fall veto session is scheduled for November 17-19 and December 1-3, 2026.

Context

The use of a flamethrower may be subject to general arson or reckless conduct statutes when the conduct meets their elements.