HB2956 Summary

• Creates the Firearm Crime Charging and Sentencing Accountability and Transparency Act requiring State's Attorneys to file written statements explaining reasons when reducing firearm charges in plea agreements.

• Requires judges to issue written sentencing orders stating reasons for sentences or plea agreement acceptance in firearm offense cases, with copies available to the public upon request.

• Expands adult prosecution of minors at least 16 years old charged with armed robbery or aggravated vehicular hijacking while armed with a firearm.

• Mandates the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority analyze firearm crime data over the prior 5 years and report arrest, conviction, and disposition information to the General Assembly by January 1, 2026.

• Allows school resource officers and qualified retired law enforcement officers to carry firearms at schools and authorizes the Police Training Board to offer training courses for retired officers seeking school employment.