SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - Opposing sides of the gun debate in Illinois are focusing on whether legislation allowing weapons to be carried publicly will apply to anyone who meets certain requirements or will be stricter.  The House Judiciary Committee listened to testimony all afternoon Tuesday. A federal court has instructed Illinois to join 49 other states in the U.S. and adopt a concealed-carry law by June.  

Gun-rights advocates such as the National Rifle Association argue that the law should require issuing a concealed carry permit unless authorities can provide a strong reason why it shouldn't be granted.  But supporters of tighter laws say the law should allow local authorities -- likely the county sheriff -- to deny a permit for other reasons.  The House will have another hearing on guns Friday in Chicago.