Assembly Bill 609 proposes significant changes to the laws governing the carrying of concealed weapons in Wisconsin. The bill repeals various sections of current law that prohibit individuals from carrying concealed weapons without a license or law enforcement identification card. It maintains the option for individuals to obtain a license to carry a concealed weapon, which is necessary for carrying in states that require such licensure and to comply with federal laws regarding firearms in school zones. The bill also modifies the background check requirements for obtaining a concealed carry license, limiting them to federal law only, and eliminates the general prohibition against carrying a concealed weapon in certain government buildings while retaining specific prohibitions for places like police stations and secure mental health facilities.

Additionally, the bill reduces the distance required for hunting near hospitals and schools from 1,700 feet to 1,200 feet and removes the prohibition on loading firearms in vehicles, except for handguns. It also consolidates and renumbers various provisions related to firearm possession and transport, while eliminating distinctions in penalties based on whether an individual holds a concealed carry license. Overall, the bill aims to simplify and expand the rights of individuals to carry firearms while maintaining certain restrictions in sensitive areas.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 29.301(1)(b), 29.301, 167.31(2)(c), 167.31, 167.31(2)(d), 167.31(2)(e), 167.31(3)(a)2, 167.31(4)(a)(intro.), 167.31(4)(ag), 167.31(4)(am), 167.31(4)(b), 167.31(4)(c), 167.31(4)(cg)(intro.)