Champaign County Board Backs State Firearms Accountability Measure

Resolution urges passage of RIFL Act to shift costs of gun violence from taxpayers to manufacturers.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The Champaign County Board has approved a resolution supporting statewide legislation that would require firearm manufacturers to help cover the public costs associated with gun violence. The measure, known as the Illinois Responsibility in Firearms Legislation (RIFL) Act, would establish a fund that firearm manufacturers would contribute to annually in order to obtain licensure to distribute, import or sell firearms in Illinois.

Why it matters

The resolution aligns with the county's ongoing commitment to gun violence prevention and public safety efforts. Supporters argue the RIFL Act would encourage safer firearm production and address the financial burden gun violence places on Illinois communities.

The details

If enacted, the RIFL Act would require firearm manufacturers to contribute annually to a state fund based on their products' connection to firearm-related injuries or deaths in the state. Funds generated would support evidence-based violence and suicide prevention programs, victim services and high-risk youth intervention initiatives, including organizations operating locally in Champaign County.

  • The Champaign County Board passed Resolution No. 2026-43 in support of the RIFL Act at its Feb. 19 meeting.
  • The RIFL Act is sponsored by State Rep. Kevin Olickal and State Sen. Robert Peters, with co-sponsorship from Sen. Paul Faraci.

The players

Champaign County Board

The governing body of Champaign County, Illinois that passed a resolution in support of the RIFL Act.

Illinois Responsibility in Firearms Legislation (RIFL) Act

Proposed state legislation that would require firearm manufacturers to contribute annually to a fund in order to obtain licensure to distribute, import or sell firearms in Illinois.

Steve Summers

Champaign County Executive who said the resolution aligns with the county's ongoing commitment to gun violence prevention and public safety efforts.

Elly Hanauer-Friedman

Champaign County Board member who introduced the resolution in support of the RIFL Act.

Larry Boone

Chief of police in Urbana, Illinois who spoke in favor of the resolution during the Champaign County Board meeting.

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What they’re saying

“If the RIFL Act strengthens accountability within the firearms industry and establishes real mechanisms to deter irresponsible distribution practices, then it's a meaningful step forward to reducing the flow of illegal guns. Public safety demands a layered strategy. Enforcement alone cannot solve gun violence — prevention accountability and responsible industry practices must work in tandem.”

— Larry Boone, Chief of police in Urbana (Chambana Today)

What’s next

The RIFL Act Coalition, which includes more than 60 organizations across Illinois, is advocating for the bill's passage during the 104th General Assembly.

The takeaway

This resolution highlights Champaign County's commitment to addressing the public costs of gun violence through legislative measures that hold the firearms industry accountable. If enacted, the RIFL Act could provide crucial funding for violence prevention and intervention programs in the local community.