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Wisconsin Approves 'Permitless Carry' Bill, Awaits Governor's Decision

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2026/03/26 .. tless-carry-bill-awaits-governor-s-decision.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Thursday, March 26th 2026 at 15:56 GMT by Madison.com
      Locale: UNITED STATES

MADISON, WI - March 26th, 2026 - Wisconsin stands on the cusp of becoming the 26th state to enact "permitless carry," also known as "constitutional carry," following the passage of a bill eliminating the requirement for permits to carry concealed firearms. The measure, approved by the state Legislature on Wednesday, now awaits a decision from Governor Tony Evers, whose position remains uncertain, setting the stage for a potentially contentious showdown.

The bill, spearheaded by Republican lawmakers, would fundamentally alter Wisconsin's firearm regulations, allowing any individual legally authorized to own a firearm to carry a concealed weapon without the current stipulations of obtaining a permit, completing mandatory training courses, or undergoing a background check specifically for concealed carry. While existing state and federal laws prohibiting firearm ownership for certain individuals would remain in effect, the elimination of the permit process represents a significant shift in the state's approach to gun control.

Currently, Wisconsin requires individuals to complete a training program, submit an application, and pass a background check through the Wisconsin Department of Justice before being issued a concealed carry permit. Proponents of the new bill argue that this requirement infringes upon Second Amendment rights, placing an unnecessary burden on law-abiding citizens. They contend that responsible gun owners should not be penalized with bureaucratic hurdles simply for exercising their constitutional right to bear arms for self-defense.

"This legislation isn't about making it easier to own a gun, it's about acknowledging a right that already exists," stated Representative David Miller (R-Eau Claire), a key sponsor of the bill, during Wednesday's Assembly debate. "Responsible citizens shouldn't have to seek permission from the government to protect themselves and their families. The current system is an impediment, not a safeguard."

However, the bill has drawn sharp criticism from Democratic lawmakers and gun control advocacy groups, who express serious concerns about public safety. They argue that the removal of training and background check requirements could lead to an increase in gun violence and accidental shootings. They point to studies suggesting a correlation between permitless carry laws and a rise in firearm-related incidents, though the research remains hotly debated.

"Eliminating the requirement for training is reckless and irresponsible," asserted Senator Sarah Johnson (D-Madison). "The current system ensures that individuals carrying concealed weapons have a basic understanding of firearm safety, handling, and legal responsibilities. Removing that safeguard puts our communities at risk."

The legislation also expands the locations where firearms can be carried. Currently prohibited areas, such as the state Capitol building, would become permissible carry zones under the new law. However, sensitive locations like schools, courthouses, and certain federal buildings would remain off-limits. This aspect of the bill has particularly fueled concerns from those involved in school safety, raising questions about the potential for accidental discharges or confrontations in educational settings.

The debate surrounding this bill mirrors a national trend. Over the past decade, a growing number of states have adopted permitless carry laws, fueled by a combination of Second Amendment advocacy and a perceived need to streamline gun ownership regulations. Supporters argue that these laws empower law-abiding citizens to defend themselves against threats, while opponents maintain they exacerbate the problem of gun violence.

Governor Evers, a Democrat, has a complex relationship with gun control legislation. While he has previously supported some measures aimed at reducing gun violence, he has also expressed respect for responsible gun ownership. His decision on this bill is anticipated to be influenced by a multitude of factors, including public opinion, input from law enforcement officials, and the potential political ramifications.

The Wisconsin Department of Justice has indicated it is preparing for the potential implementation of the law, including revising training materials and updating its online resources to reflect the new regulations. Law enforcement agencies across the state are also bracing for potential challenges, such as identifying individuals legally carrying firearms in situations where a prohibited person is suspected.

The passage of this bill is likely to ignite further debate over gun control in Wisconsin, a state already deeply divided on the issue. The coming weeks will be crucial as Governor Evers weighs the arguments and determines whether to sign the bill into law, potentially reshaping the landscape of gun rights in the Badger State.