SPRINGFIELD — Except for a handful of sharpshooters stationed well away from the state’s most notorious lawbreakers, most of the guards at Illinois prisons are not armed while on the job.

But in a proposal introduced in the Illinois House, correctional officers, county jailers and retired guards could get the ability to carry concealed weapons when they are off work.

State Rep. Jim Sacia, R-Pecatonica, said the measure was inspired by a correctional guard who was concerned about his own safety after dealing with hardened criminals every day.

“Prison can be a pretty volatile place,” Sacia said. “When these inmates get out, there are those who harbor some hatred and anger.”

Illinois and Wisconsin are the only states that do not allow citizens to carry concealed weapons. In order to qualify, Sacia said guards and retirees would have to prove they are properly trained to handle a handgun in order to receive a permit.

Exemptions are in place for some groups, including retired law enforcement personnel.

But it remains unclear how many former cops have permits. In August, a check of numbers showed 3,300 retirees had qualified under a state program, but that figure didn’t count locally issued permits.