Sunday, February 23, 2014

Company Policy for The Firearm Concealed Carry Act in Illinois

The Firearm Concealed Carry Act that became law in Illinois in late 2013 is a complex issue that will play out in the courts. All we know for certain is that employers can prohibit firearms on their property and vehicles but not in the parking lot.

We acknowledge that the policy below will not stand up in court if the company terminates an employee with a permit that has a gun in their car in the company parking lot.

However, the alternative is to overtly state that they can keep guns in their car, illustrating an avenue to circumvent the policy and bring dangerous weapons to work. We advocate the below verbiage (or some similar format) with the knowledge that you won’t be able to terminate licensed employees that keep guns in their cars in the parking lot.

If you do decide to adopt a policy, you are required to post a sign on building(s) – a copy of the sign can be found here:
http://www.isp.state.il.us/media/pressdetails.cfm?ID=762


Dangerous Weapons Policy
ABC COMPANY prohibits the possession of firearms or any other lethal weapon on Company property, in a vehicle being used on Company business, or at a work-related function. This applies to all employees, visitors and customers on Company property, even those who are licensed to carry weapons.

Some examples of prohibited weapons include:
- Firearms, pistols, revolvers, shotguns, rifles and bb guns)
- Knives (switchblades, gravity knives or any knife with a blade longer than three inches)
- Metal knuckles
- Bows and arrows
- Tasers

We prohibit weapons to ensure the safety and security of all employees and persons visiting the Company. Any employee found in violation of this policy will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including immediate termination. If you have questions or concerns regarding this policy, please contact Human Resources.