Illinois lawmakers have defeated a plan that would allow residents to carry concealed guns. 

The ‘concealed carry’ measure needed 71 votes to pass the Illinois House of Representatives, but failed to reach that threshold as 32 lawmakers voted against the proposal on Thursday.

Illinois is virtually alone among states in barring people from carrying concealed weapons.

Gun advocates argue that concealed carry laws improve safety and say people should be able to carry them if they have the proper training. Opponents fear such a law would increase shootings.

Democratic Gov. Pat Quinn opposed the bill and promised to veto it if it passed.