SPRINGFIELD - For the second time in a year, an attempt to toughen state gun laws fell short of passage in the Illinois House.

The proposal, which failed on a 55-60 vote Wednesday, aims to close the so-called private-sale loophole.

Under state law, people buying firearms from private sellers at gun shows must undergo a background check.

But, other private handgun sales are not subject to background checks. Supporters say current law allows guns to get into the hands of criminals who would otherwise not be able to buy firearms.

"We're not trying to penalize responsible gun owners," said state Rep. Deborah Graham, D-Chicago.

A majority of lawmakers, however, doubted additional gun laws would stop the violence.

"If they are going to kill you, they are going to kill you," said state Rep. Eddie Washington, D-Waukegan.

Downstate lawmakers argued that Chicago-area lawmakers are trying to impose stricter gun laws on the rest of the state when the problems of gun violence are primarily limited to within the state's largest city.

"Gun laws like this are not going to cure your community's problems," said state Rep. Mike Bost, R-Murphysboro. "There are still going to be criminals."

"Do you really think that criminals … are going to abide by this law?" added state Rep. Brandon Phelps, D-Harrisburg.

The legislation is House Bill 48.

kurt.erickson@lee.net / 217-789-0865