In Cook County, those who don't report a stolen gun to the sheriff's office within 48 hours can be fined. (Photo courtesy of the McLean County Sheriff's Department)

By The Associated Press

CHICAGO - Cook County commissioners are making it more expensive for suburban gun owners who don't report when their guns are stolen, destroyed, lost or sold.

Under the ordinance, those who don't report to the sheriff's office within 48 hours can be fined. Fines are $1,000 for the first violation, $1,500 for each gun on the second offense and $2,000 after that.

County Board President Toni Preckwinkle introduced the measure. It's part of an effort to crack down on straw purchasers, or those who buy guns legally and provide the weapons to people can't legally possess them.

The law goes into effect in August.

In Chicago the City Council is considering an ordinance to increase the jail sentence for those who don't report lost, stolen or transferred weapons.