Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB55

Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/24/25
• Refer: 2/24/25

Caption

Possession of a firearm on school grounds by school employees and fees for licenses to carry a concealed weapon. (FE)

Impact

By enacting AB55, Wisconsin state laws will permit licensed teachers to carry firearms on school campuses, provided that appropriate policies are in place. This represents a significant shift from the existing regime, under which state law prohibits firearm possession on school grounds with few exceptions. The bill is expected to bring clarity to the legal status of firearms in educational settings, addressing concerns of safety and allowing schools the autonomy to decide on this critical issue. However, the adoption of such measures may also raise questions regarding the implications for school safety culture and the potential for an escalation of violence.

Summary

Assembly Bill 55 introduces significant changes to the regulation of firearm possession on school grounds in Wisconsin. The bill allows teachers employed by a school to possess firearms on school grounds, provided that the school's governing body adopts a policy permitting this practice. This creates a state-level exception similar to existing federal laws, thereby aligning state and federal regulations on this matter. The intention behind this measure is to enhance the safety of school environments by enabling trained personnel to carry firearms, which supporters argue may help in preventing school shootings and enhancing overall security.

Contention

The bill has sparked debate among lawmakers and advocacy groups, with proponents contending that allowing teachers to carry firearms would provide a vital line of defense against potential threats, particularly active shooter scenarios. Critics, however, argue that the presence of firearms on campus could introduce new risks, potentially leading to accidental discharges or misuse of weapons. Concerns about the adequacy of training for teachers who would be carrying firearms, as well as the psychological impact on students, have also emerged as key points of contention during discussions about the legislation. These discussions indicate that while some see AB55 as a necessary measure for improving school safety, others view it as an unnecessary and possibly detrimental step in the wrong direction.