Rep. Sheehan critical of bill to limit non-lethal force

State Representative Patrick Sheehan, who also serves as a southwest suburban police officer, is speaking out against a proposal by an Illinois Democrat to ban tear gas and pepper spray as tools of non-lethal force by law enforcement.

"This is yet another example of a radical Democrat stoking fear among the public and trying to take de-escalation tools away from law enforcement," said Sheehan. "When confronted with situations which threaten the safety of law enforcement officers or the public, non-lethal force can help prevent dangerous rioting and calm crowd violence."

House Bill 5553, introduced by Rep. Edgar Gonzalez (D-Chicago), would make illegal the deployment or possession of tear gas one year after the law takes effect. Exemptions in the bill include possession by retailers in sealed containers, possession for interstate shipping, and small self-defense devices under two ounces. The bill creates a private right of action, allowing individuals injured by tear gas to sue officers individually or agencies without having to prove negligence. Other provisions of the bill address public reporting of violations and large fines.

"Those across the aisle should be supporting law enforcement with tools to de-escalate violent confrontations. Politicians should not be stoking dangerous interactions which threaten the public and those performing the very dangerous job of keeping them safe," said Sheehan. "I join law enforcement officers from across the state in condemning this proposal which threatens public safety."

Rep. Sheehan proudly serves the people of the 37^th District in the Illinois House.