IL HB4961

Eliminates the January 1, 2023 repeal date of the First Time Weapon Offender Program under the Unified Code of Corrections, allowing the program to continue indefinitely.

Permits courts to sentence first-time, non-violent offenders under age 21 to the diversion program instead of incarceration for unlawful weapons possession charges punishable as Class 4 felony or lower, with consent of defendant and State's Attorney.

Requires program participants to complete 18-24 months of supervision including community service (minimum 50 hours), employment or educational pursuits, drug testing, counseling, and refrain from possessing firearms or illegal drugs.

Disqualifies defendants with prior violent convictions, existing orders of protection, prior program completion, or those who committed offenses during violent crimes from program eligibility.

Upon successful program completion, charges are dismissed and the defendant is discharged; violation of program conditions allows court to enter judgment and proceed with prosecution.