Gun advocates are hoping this is the year Illinois allows residents to carry guns legally.  Todd Vandermyde with the National Rifle Association says he's hoping several pending lawsuits change the minds of conceal carry opponents.

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Vandermyde adds there are several pending lawsuits that could fall in their favor.

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The state Supreme Court heard oral arguments last week in the Wilson versus Cook County case.  Plaintiffs want the court to reverse the Cook County ban on semi-automatic rifles, shotguns, and handguns.  Vandermyde calls it too "broad-based" because it includes several rural hunting areas.  Illinois is the only state in the nation that doesn't allow some form of concealed carry.