SPRINGFIELD - A panel dominated by downstate lawmakers has again recommended the General Assembly give Illinois residents the right to carry concealed weapons.

For at least the fourth time in recent years, the House agriculture committee's endorsement of the controversial idea likely will run headlong this spring into serious opposition from Chicago-area lawmakers who oppose the concept.

"There are obviously big philosophical issues over this," said state Rep. John Bradley, a Marion Democrat who is pushing one of the two concealed carry proposals approved by the committee Wednesday.

Illinois and Wisconsin are the only states that do not offer residents the opportunity to carry concealed weapons if they undergo training.

The issue has never gained traction in the Legislature because of concerns by Chicago-area lawmakers about increased handgun violence.

Opponents say allowing more people to have weapons could lead to more shootings in the state's largest city.

"When you increase access, you increase risk," said Chris Boyster, spokesman for the Illinois Council Against Handgun Violence. "You're going to provide a false sense of security."

Supporters, however, say a U.S. Supreme Court ruling last summer that overturned a handgun ban in Washington D.C., as well as an endorsement of concealed carry by the Illinois Sheriffs' Association, has given them momentum.

"Forty-eight other states can't be wrong," argued Todd Vandermyde, lobbyist for the National Rifle Association.

In the committee, two versions of concealed carry legislation were sent to the House floor for further consideration.

House Bill 245, sponsored by Bradley, would allow the Illinois State Police to issue the permits. It was endorsed on an 11-1 vote, with state Rep. Julie Hamos, D-Evanston, the lone "no" vote.

House Bill 462, sponsored by state Rep. Brandon Phelps, D-Harrisburb, would allow county sheriffs to issue permits. It was approved by the same margin.

Those voting "yes" included state Reps. Pat Verschoore, D-Milan; Shane Cultra, R-Onarga; Bob Flider, D-Mount Zion; David Reis, R-Willow Hill; and Dan Reitz, D-Steeleville.