Wisconsin Senate Bill SB330

Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/19/25
• Refer: 6/19/25

Caption

Waiting period for purchase of handguns.

Impact

The implementation of SB 330 will have a direct impact on existing statutes regarding handgun sales. It modifies the content of Section 175.35 of the state statutes, which outlines the conditions under which handguns can be transferred. By instituting this waiting period, the bill aims to reduce the likelihood of firearms being purchased impulsively by individuals who may pose risks, thereby enhancing public safety. The bill reflects ongoing debates about the balance of gun rights with the necessity for regulatory measures designed to diminish potential violence.

Summary

Senate Bill 330 introduces a significant adjustment to Wisconsin's regulations surrounding handgun purchases. The bill mandates a minimum waiting period of 48 hours from the time a federally licensed firearms dealer requests a background check on a prospective handgun buyer until the transfer of the handgun can occur. This legislative change aims to enhance the state's control over firearm sales by ensuring there is ample time to conduct thorough background investigations of potential buyers before a sale is finalized. It seeks to address concerns about gun safety and responsible ownership in the context of increasing calls for gun legislation reform.

Contention

As expected with any legislation concerning firearms, SB 330 has sparked a variety of discussions within legislative circles and community forums. Proponents argue that the stipulated waiting period could serve as a critical step in preventing gun-related incidents, advocating for a more cautious approach to firearm transactions. Conversely, opponents have raised concerns about potential infringements on individual rights, perceiving the bill as an unnecessary burden on legal purchasers. This dichotomy illustrates the broader national conversation surrounding gun control and the varying perceptions of safety and liberty in relation to firearm access.