Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB1199

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/9/24
• Refer: 4/9/24
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Eliminating the preemption on local government regulation of firearms.

Impact

If passed, AB1199 would empower local governments to create and enforce their own regulations regarding firearms, which could include stricter rules on usage, sales, and ownership than those provided by the state. This shift could lead to a fragmented patchwork of gun regulations across the state, as different municipalities might adopt various approaches based on their specific public safety needs and local convictions regarding firearms. Proponents believe this change could enhance community safety and give residents a voice in local governance concerning gun control.

Summary

Assembly Bill 1199 aims to eliminate the preemption clause that currently restricts local governments in Wisconsin from regulating firearms and related activities more stringently than state law allows. As it stands, local jurisdictions are unable to impose regulations that could be stricter than those defined at the state level for the sale, purchase, transfer, and ownership of firearms and ammunition. The bill has been introduced into the legislative framework on April 9, 2024, and is backed by a group of representatives and senators committed to increasing local control over gun policies.

Contention

The primary point of contention surrounding AB1199 is the tension between gun rights advocates, who argue that loosening state regulations is crucial for protecting Second Amendment rights, and those who favor stricter regulations, citing public safety as paramount. Critics of the bill express concern that allowing local governments to impose tighter restrictions could infringe on individual freedoms and lead to a confusing landscape of laws for gun owners. Legislative debates will likely include discussions on the implications for law enforcement, the potential for increased litigation, and issues of personal responsibility and rights protection.