OFF THE WIRE
Illinois State Police say they've launched a new website that publicizes the application process for Illinoisans who want to carry concealed weapons.
(SPRINGFIELD, Ill.) -- Illinois State Police say they're getting ready to issue the state's first concealed carry permits in the coming days.
Police spokeswoman Monique Bond tells The (Arlington Heights) Daily Herald that the first licenses could be issued next week. Authorities had said they hoped to issue the first permits in the spring.
Illinois gun owners began applying for the permits in January after the state became the last in the nation to allow people to carry concealed guns. Police have been reviewing the applications.
By the end of January, more than 16,000 people had filed paperwork to get a permit. State officials believe as many as 400,000 people will apply for the concealed carry permits during the first year of the law.
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