SPRINGFIELD – To strengthen protections for domestic violence survivors, State Senator Laura Fine supported Karina’s Law to expedite the removal of firearms from individuals subject to emergency retraining orders.

“Families and their loved ones should feel  secure when requesting a civil order of protection, knowing it will ensure their abuser will no longer have access to firearms that could further place them at risk,” said Fine (D-Glenview). “Domestic violence-related shootings continue to rise with a 55% increase from 2023 to 2024, and we must protect our communities with tangible solutions.”

House Bill 4144, or Karina’s Law, would strengthen firearm removal requirements when domestic violence protection orders are issued. Under the bill, law enforcement would be required to remove firearms from individuals whose FOID cards are revoked due to emergency restraining orders within 96 hours of a judge’s order. This measure establishes clear guidelines for enforcement, ensuring consistent application statewide and addressing the risks posed by firearms in domestic violence situations.

Karina’s Law is named in honor of Chicago resident Karina Gonzalez who was killed, along with her daughter, by her estranged husband two weeks after a court order of protection was granted.

“This measure provides victims and their families with gun violence protections that remove risk of further harm by their abusers,” said Fine. “With Karina’s Law, we are taking a step forward in supporting families who seek lifesaving protections for themselves and their loved ones.”

House Bill 4144 passed the Senate Monday.