Assembly Bill 325 aims to enhance regulations surrounding the transfer of firearms in Wisconsin. The bill prohibits any person from transferring a firearm, including its frame or receiver, unless the transfer is conducted through a federally licensed firearms dealer and includes a background check of the prospective transferee. Exceptions to this prohibition include transfers to firearms dealers, law enforcement, or armed services agencies, as well as transfers of antique firearms or those made as gifts, bequests, or inheritances to family members. Violators of this prohibition would face misdemeanor charges, with penalties including fines ranging from $500 to $10,000, potential imprisonment for up to nine months, and a two-year prohibition on firearm possession.

The bill also includes several amendments and new provisions to existing statutes. Notably, it repeals the previous language regarding handgun purchases and replaces it with broader terminology related to firearms. It establishes definitions for terms such as "family member" and "firearm," and outlines the requirements that must be met before a firearm can be transferred. Additionally, it mandates that firearms dealers provide written receipts for transfers and sets forth rules for the Department of Justice to follow in conducting background checks. Overall, the bill seeks to tighten the regulations on firearm transfers to enhance public safety.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 175.35(title), 175.35, 175.35(1)(at), 175.35(1)(b), 175.35(2g)(a), 175.35(2g)(b)1, 175.35(2g)(b)2, 175.35(2k)(ar)2