HB0034 (2026): Banning Firearms at Polling Places

What the Bill Would Do

House Bill 0034 would amend the Election Code (10 ILCS 5) to prohibit carrying or possessing a firearm in a polling place, except by a peace officer performing official duties^[1]. Polling places in schools or specified government buildings are already subject to the concealed-carry restrictions in 430 ILCS 66/65(a), including that section's exceptions. Churches are not listed as a separate prohibited category, but a church that also falls within a listed category is subject to that restriction. A private property owner may prohibit concealed carry under 66/65(a-10) and must post a sign unless the property is a private residence, and not all polling locations fall under the existing restrictions. The bill would close this gap by making the polling place itself a restricted zone regardless of its physical location.

House Committee Amendment No. 1 was referred to the Gun Violence Prevention Committee on February 11, 2026.

Current Status

HB0034 and House Committee Amendment No. 1 were re-referred to Rules Committee on March 27, 2026. The latest recorded action was the addition of a co-sponsor on May 8, 2026^[1]. The 104th General Assembly adjourned on June 1, 2026, until the call of its presiding officers. HB0034 had not passed either chamber. The bill remains pending in the 104th General Assembly, which may reconvene at the call of its presiding officers. The fall veto session is scheduled for November 17-19 and December 1-3, 2026.

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