Hunters may soon enjoy a streamlined process to get their hunting licenses thanks to legislation sponsored by State Sen. Jil Tracy (R-Quincy) and passed through the Illinois Senate this week. Tracy’s legislation would allow the use of an electronic hunting license as an alternative to a physical copy.

Tracy introduced Senate Bill 1325 as an answer to a demand frequently heard throughout Illinois’ hunting community, law enforcement and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources—all who recognized an outdated gap in the hunter verification process.

“Allowing the use of an electronic license could expedite the process of getting a hunting license and reduce the number of unnecessary court dates for hunters who did not have their physical license on hand,” said Tracy. “Hunters often carry their phones; we have the technology at our fingertips, and we should be using it for bills like this one that streamline government processes.”    

The legislation redefines the state of Illinois’ meaning of “Hunting License” to accept both electronic and physical forms of a hunting license, easing the experience for hunters and increasing government efficiency. Senate Bill 1325 follows a similar path as the rules that apply to drivers’ insurance, which can now legally be presented via electronic means.

The Senate unanimously approved Tracy’s bill on April 26. It will now move to the House of Representatives for consideration.