Concealed Carry And Permits
Wisconsin Democrats Push Bill to Ban Concealed Carry on College Campuses
Proposal would make it a misdemeanor to carry firearms on university grounds, even with a permit
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✍️By ZRIntel Editorial Team📍Madison, WI
MADISON, WI Democratic lawmakers in Wisconsin have introduced legislation seeking to prohibit concealed carry on public university campuses, reigniting a debate that has resurfaced several times over the past decade. Under current law, concealed carry license holders may bring firearms onto university property, though individual buildings can post signage prohibiting weapons inside. The new proposal would extend restrictions to all campus grounds and make violations a Class A misdemeanor, carrying penalties of up to nine months in jail and a $10,000 fine. State Sen. Kelda Roys, whose district includes the University of Wisconsin-Madison, framed the measure as an overdue step to bring higher education facilities under the same protections already afforded to K-12 schools. This basically allows our colleges and universities to have the same gun-free school protections that our K-12 schools do, Roys said. She emphasized that Wisconsin is one of just 14 states where public universities must allow concealed carry, a policy she described as out of step with national norms on campus safety. The legislation arrives at a sensitive time. Earlier this year, UW-Platteville was rocked by a murder-suicide in a residence hall. According to a 538-page police report, 22-year-old student Hallie Helms, who held a concealed carry permit and had recently completed a firearms safety course, shot and killed 22-year-old assistant resident director Kelsie Martin before taking her own life. Investigators found evidence suggesting Helms was suicidal after facing academic setbacks, including being informed that she would not be recommended for a teaching license. The report revealed no evidence of a specific motive for the attack but underscored the presence of legally carried firearms in campus incidents. Student voices have also entered the debate. Nella Bleill, a UW-Madison student and survivor of the 2022 Highland Park, Illinois, parade shooting, supported the bill, arguing that campus safety policies should prioritize preventing firearms from entering classrooms and dormitories. In terms of campus safety this is the number one thing [to change] because its so uncommon that concealed carry is allowed here on campuses, Bleill said. Republican leaders, who control both chambers of the Wisconsin Legislature, have historically blocked similar proposals, and they did not respond to requests for comment on the latest measure. Observers expect the bill will again face steep opposition, reflecting longstanding partisan divides over gun rights and campus security in the state. The legislations introduction underscores Wisconsins unique position in the national landscape of firearms policy. While 36 states grant universities authority to set their own carry rulesmany opting for restrictionsWisconsins mandate permitting concealed carry on campuses has stood out as unusual. Advocates for change argue this legal framework exposes students and staff to heightened risks, particularly amid rising concerns over mass shootings and mental health crises.