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Illinois Lawmakers Make the Correct Call

Lawmakers in Illinois have voted to overrule the veto of a bill by the anti-gun governor of the state. From the AP:

Illinois lawmakers voted overwhelmingly Tuesday to give legal protection to homeowners who violate handgun bans to shoot burglars, overriding Gov. Rod Blagojevich's veto of legislation that became a symbol in the tug-of-war over gun control.

The legislation says that people who shoot intruders on their property cannot be convicted of violating local gun bans, but it does not prevent charges if prosecutors believe the shooting itself was a crime.

Backers saw the measure as a statement of support for people who defend themselves in their own homes, while opponents said it was an attempt to undercut local gun laws.

The measure was inspired by the case of a Wilmette restaurant owner who shot a burglar who had broken into his home twice. County prosecutors declined to press charges for the shooting, but Wilmette officials charged the restaurateur with violating the city's handgun ban.

About half a dozen Illinois cities, including Chicago, ban handguns, according to the Illinois Council Against Handgun Violence.