An Act Relating to: repealing an administrative rule of the Department of Natural Resources related to the possession of firearms.
Summary
AB16 repeals Wisconsin Administrative Code rule NR 20.05(2), a Department of Natural Resources rule that prohibited a person from possessing or controlling a firearm, gun, or similar device while on the waters, banks, or shores of inland and outlying waters when the area might be used for fishing. The bill is a direct legislative response to the Joint Committee for Review of Administrative Rules’ suspension of that rule on December 17, 2024, and is introduced under the statutory process for repealing a suspended administrative rule.
In practical terms, the bill would remove the DNR’s authority under this specific rule to bar firearm possession in those locations, leaving the underlying state statutes and any other applicable hunting, fishing, trespass, or weapons laws in place. It does not create a new firearms policy so much as eliminate an existing administrative restriction tied to fishing areas and waterways. The measure would therefore affect anglers, hunters, firearm owners, and the DNR’s enforcement of rules on public waters and shorelines.
Impact
If enacted, AB16 would repeal NR 20.05(2) from the administrative code and prevent that DNR rule from remaining in effect. The bill would narrow state administrative regulation over firearm possession on waters, banks, and shores associated with fishing, while leaving broader firearms laws and natural resources statutes unchanged. Its effect is primarily on the Department of Natural Resources and on individuals who recreate, fish, or carry firearms near Wisconsin waterways.
Sentiment
The available record suggests the bill was generally supported by the legislative process that advanced it, as reflected by the Assembly vote and the fact that it was introduced to carry out the Joint Committee for Review of Administrative Rules’ suspension of the underlying rule. At the same time, the bill’s subject matter—firearm possession restrictions on public waters—indicates a politically sensitive issue likely to draw interest from both gun-rights supporters and those favoring stronger safety rules. No committee transcript is available here, so the discussion record does not show detailed public arguments.
Contention
The main point of contention is whether the DNR should be able to restrict firearm possession in areas used for fishing and along Wisconsin waters, banks, and shores. Supporters of repeal would likely view the rule as an overreach or an unnecessary burden on lawful firearm possession, while opponents would likely argue that the restriction promotes safety in shared outdoor spaces. The controversy centers on balancing firearms rights against wildlife-management and public-safety concerns, with the DNR’s regulatory authority also at issue.