Wisconsin Senate Bill SB1100

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/27/24
• Refer: 3/27/24
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Eliminating the preemption on local government regulation of firearms.

Impact

The repeal of the preemption could empower local governments to implement their own regulations on the possession and use of firearms. This might include requiring permits for ownership, instituting waiting periods for purchases, or even limitations on the types of firearms that can be owned. The impacts of such changes would be locally significant, as they could lead to variations in gun laws across the state, with different communities adopting differing levels of regulation based on their respective safety concerns and political climates.

Summary

Senate Bill 1100 seeks to repeal the current legal framework that prevents local governments from regulating firearms in a manner that exceeds state regulations. Specifically, the bill eliminates the preemption law found in statute 66.0409, allowing municipalities the authority to enact stricter controls regarding the sale, ownership, and use of firearms and related items. This legislative change represents a significant shift in the balance of power between state and local governments concerning the regulation of firearms.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB 1100 include discussions about public safety and individual rights. Advocates for the bill argue that local governments should have the discretion to tailor their regulations according to the needs of their communities, positing that some areas may face unique challenges necessitating stricter controls. Conversely, opponents of the bill are likely to argue that a patchwork of local laws could create confusion and undermine the rights of gun owners, potentially leading to an increase in legal disputes over regulations. Additionally, there are concerns about the implications for gun owners traveling between jurisdictions with differing laws.