The vote was 65-49 in the Illinois House on Senate Bill 337, legislation to require gun stores to be licensed not only by the Federal government, but also by state government.

Subtract seven from sixty-five and the bill would not have passed.

From a strategic point of view, those opposed to guns seem to be doing what Pro-Lifers are trying to do with regard to abortion.

In states where Pro-Lifers have a majority, they try to tighten restrictions on abortion clinics and doctors, hoping to drive them out of business.

Those favoring stricter gun control–or outright repeal of the Second Amendment–are trying to do is drive gun stores out of business by tighter licensing requirements than imposed by the Federal government.

Republican House members voting for the bill were McHenry County Representative Steve Anderson, House Republican Leader Jim Durkin, Floor Spokesman Peter Breen, David Olson, Patty Bulleck, Christine Winger and Mick McAuliffe.

The House roll call follows:

the Senate roll call from May 15th follows (another vote is required to approve the House amendment for the bill to go to the Governor’s desk):

Rep Allen Skillicorn in his floor debate opposing SB 337 quoted the Illinois Republican Party platform:

We believe that day-to-day safety and security in our local communities is critical. Therefore, we strongly endorse and support the Second Amendment to the United States Constitution, which states, in part, “the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.” As a result, we oppose any efforts by the state or municipalities to impede the right of law-abiding citizens to keep and bear arms.”