House adds Phelps gun-carry bill as amendment

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois House completed seven hours of debate on the contentious issue of public gun possession by adopting a comprehensive plan long pushed by advocates.

The 67-48 vote in favor of Rep. Brandon Phelps's amendment doesn't mean concealed-carry got House approval. The Harrisburg Democrat's plan was one of a dozen amendments added to a bill allowing concealed gun carrying a federal court says Illinois must adopt by June.

The lengthy discussion was part of a seldom-used process set up by House Speaker Michael Madigan.

Critics, mostly Republicans, say debating multiple amendments led to a confusing hodge-podge of conflicting provisions. It was unclear when the House would take a final vote on the issue.