SPRINGFIELD – In an effort to protect survivors of domestic violence, State Senator Laura Murphy proudly supported a measure that would ensure firearms are able to be removed from the hands of abusers, following the issuing of an order of protection.

“Domestic violence causes a host of problems and when a firearm enters the situation it has the potential to become deadly,” said Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “Victims of domestic violence deserve a system that protects their wellbeing and holds abusers accountable.”

House Bill 4144 – also known as Karina's Bill – would strengthen firearm removal requirements when domestic violence protection orders are issued. Law enforcement agencies would be required to remove firearms within 96 hours of a judge’s order from individuals whose FOID cards are revoked due to emergency restraining orders. This new policy would provide clear guidelines for enforcement, ensuring consistent application across the state and addressing the risks associated with firearms in domestic violence situations.

The legislation follows the July 2023 deaths of Karina Gonzalez and her teenage daughter Daniela, who were killed by Gonzalez's husband shortly after obtaining a protection order against him. The order should have resulted in the removal of his FOID card, but there were no mechanics in place to ensure the guns were removed from the home.

In domestic violence cases, a gun in the home increases the risk of homicide by 500%, according to a report from The Network – an organization advocating against domestic violence.

“Keeping firearms out of the hands of domestic abusers is a matter of life and death,” Murphy said. “These laws save lives, protect families and ensure safer communities for everyone.”

House Bill 4144 passed the Senate Monday.