Assembly Bill 427 seeks to enhance firearm regulations on college and university campuses in Wisconsin. The bill repeals the existing provision that allows individuals to be charged with trespassing for carrying a firearm into a posted building on campus, and instead establishes a new prohibition against possessing a firearm in any publicly or privately owned building on campus or on the grounds of a university or college. Violators of this prohibition would be guilty of a Class A misdemeanor. However, exceptions are made for law enforcement officers, military personnel in the line of duty, individuals leasing non-dormitory residential or business space, participants in approved programs, and those possessing unloaded and encased firearms.

In addition to creating the new statute, the bill amends several existing laws to incorporate the new prohibition and clarify the circumstances under which firearms may be carried. Notably, it modifies sections related to concealed carry licenses and penalties for firearm violations, ensuring that the new regulations are integrated into the broader legal framework governing firearm possession. The bill aims to enhance safety on college campuses by restricting firearm access while allowing for certain exceptions to accommodate specific individuals and situations.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 175.60(2g)(a), 175.60, 175.60(5)(a)6, 938.34(14q), 938.34, 938.78(3), 938.78, 939.632(1)(e)3, 939.632, 941.235(1), 941.235, 943.13(1m)(c)4, 943.13, 943.13(1m)(c)5, 943.13(2)(bm)2.am, 968.255(1)(a)2, 968.255, 973.137(1), 973.137