Assembly Bill 55 proposes significant changes to the laws governing the possession of firearms on school grounds by school employees in Wisconsin. The bill creates a state exception that allows individuals who hold a concealed carry license issued by the Department of Justice (DOJ) to possess firearms on school grounds, provided that the school board or governing entity has adopted a policy permitting such possession. This aligns state law with federal law, which already includes similar exceptions. Additionally, the bill waives the application and renewal fees, as well as the background check fee, for teachers applying for a concealed carry license, thereby reducing financial barriers for educators.

The bill also includes various amendments and repeals to existing statutes. Notably, it repeals certain provisions related to the fees and requirements for obtaining a concealed carry license and renumbers and amends others to streamline the process. The amendments clarify the conditions under which school employees may carry firearms and ensure that the fees associated with licensing are based on the actual costs incurred by the DOJ. Overall, Assembly Bill 55 aims to enhance the rights of licensed school employees to carry firearms while ensuring that appropriate policies are in place at the school level.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 20.455(2)(gr), 20.455, 175.60(2g)(a), 175.60, 175.60(5)(a)6, 175.60(7)(d)