Wisconsin Senate Bill SB49

Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/21/25
• Refer: 2/21/25
• Refer: 4/22/25

Caption

Repealing an administrative rule of the Department of Natural Resources related to the possession of firearms.

Impact

If enacted, SB49 would remove the existing prohibition, altering how hunting and fishing regulations are enforced in Wisconsin. This legislative change is seen as a way to enhance the rights of individuals wanting to carry firearms while engaged in fishing activities, which may be supported by those advocating for Second Amendment rights. However, concerns have been raised about potential safety implications for both anglers and the environment, leading to debates within the community regarding the appropriateness of such a policy adjustment.

Summary

Senate Bill 49 (SB49) proposes the repeal of an administrative rule established by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) that regulates the possession of firearms while fishing. Currently, the DNR rule prohibits individuals from carrying firearms, guns, or similar devices while on the waters, banks, or shores of Wisconsin's inland and outlying waters for the purpose of fishing. The repeal aims to lift this restriction, thereby allowing the possession of firearms in these areas, which has been a point of contention among stakeholders.

Contention

Notably, the push to repeal this administrative regulation has sparked discussions about the balance between individual rights and public safety. Supporters argue that allowing firearms during fishing activities would enhance personal safety and provide a necessary means of self-defense. In contrast, opponents express fears that this change might lead to increased risks of accidents and the misuse of firearms near water bodies, emphasizing the need for clear safety guidelines. The bill is framed as part of a broader trend of deregulation concerning firearms and wildlife management, making it a significant topic in discussions surrounding state laws governing such matters.