What began as a bill to legalize the use of handguns for turkey hunting may stop local governments from placing further restrictions on state gun laws.

Illinois is one of eight states that allow municipalities to prohibit and regulate the use of firearms.

Heavily-populated areas such as Chicago, Aurora, Carol Stream and Wilmette will continue to have extra requirements on guns, said Todd Vandermied, lobbyist for the National Rifle Association.

State Rep. Brandon Phelps (D-Harrisburg) proposed a bill in February to legalize the use of handguns to hunt wild turkeys.

The bill, which was amended later that month to forbid municipalities from restricting firearms used for hunting wildlife in the state, would go into effect immediately if passed, Phelps said.

“We’re trying to tell the local governments that banning legal guns to hunt is wrong,” Vandermied said.

The proposal raised eyebrows among those opposed to amending current laws on gun ownership.

Police are appreciative for having restrictions on guns in more heavily populated areas, said Cecile Meyer, member of the DeKalb Interfaith Network for Peace and Justice.

Meyer said she is happy with the current state gun laws and thinks the bill is unnecessary.

“Hunters don’t need an arsenal to kill wild animals with,” Meyer said.

Both Phelps and Vandermied said the state is inconsistent with restrictions on hunting with guns.

“Some districts have placed restrictions on certain guns for hunting that others have not.” Phelps said. “We’re just trying to get everybody on the same page.”

“Local constituents say they use their guns for protection or hunting,” Vandermied said. “The real issue is matching the rhetoric of the people with action.”