Wisconsin Senate Bill SB466

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 9/29/23
• Refer: 9/29/23
• Report Pass: 1/5/24
• Engrossed: 1/16/24
• Refer: 1/16/24
• Enrolled: 1/22/24
• Vetoed: 3/29/24
• Failed: 5/14/24

Caption

Prohibiting firearms merchant category codes in payment card transactions, prohibiting government lists of firearm owners, and providing a penalty.

Impact

The bill proposes amendments to current state laws regarding the Department of Justice's role in regulating and tracking firearm ownership. By forbidding the maintenance of lists of firearm owners, the legislation seeks to limit governmental oversight and protect individual privacy rights. As a result, the implementation of this bill may significantly alter the regulatory landscape surrounding firearm ownership and registration, potentially affecting the enforcement of background checks and compliance with gun ownership laws.

Summary

Senate Bill 466 aims to address the intersection of firearm ownership and financial processing by prohibiting financial institutions from requiring the use of a merchant category code that identifies firearms retailers in payment card transactions. This bill also establishes that no governmental entity may maintain lists of individuals who own firearms, thereby bolstering the privacy of firearm purchasers against potential governmental tracking.

Contention

Debate surrounding SB466 has highlighted concerns regarding the effectiveness of background checks and the accountability of firearm dealers in ensuring that firearms do not end up in the hands of individuals barred from ownership due to legal reasons. Supporters argue that the bill is a necessary protection against overreach and a violation of privacy rights, while opponents express worries about the potential for increased gun violence and the challenges of maintaining public safety without the ability to track firearm ownership in the manner currently permitted.