Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

Wisconsin Senate Bill SB330

Introduced
6/19/25  
Refer
6/19/25  

Caption

An Act to amend 175.35 (title), 175.35 (2) (d) and 175.35 (2g) (c) 4. c. of the statutes; Relating to: waiting period for purchase of handguns.

Impact

The implementation of SB 330 will have a direct impact on existing statutes regarding handgun sales. It modifies the content of Section 175.35 of the state statutes, which outlines the conditions under which handguns can be transferred. By instituting this waiting period, the bill aims to reduce the likelihood of firearms being purchased impulsively by individuals who may pose risks, thereby enhancing public safety. The bill reflects ongoing debates about the balance of gun rights with the necessity for regulatory measures designed to diminish potential violence.

Summary

Senate Bill 330 introduces a significant adjustment to Wisconsin's regulations surrounding handgun purchases. The bill mandates a minimum waiting period of 48 hours from the time a federally licensed firearms dealer requests a background check on a prospective handgun buyer until the transfer of the handgun can occur. This legislative change aims to enhance the state's control over firearm sales by ensuring there is ample time to conduct thorough background investigations of potential buyers before a sale is finalized. It seeks to address concerns about gun safety and responsible ownership in the context of increasing calls for gun legislation reform.

Contention

As expected with any legislation concerning firearms, SB 330 has sparked a variety of discussions within legislative circles and community forums. Proponents argue that the stipulated waiting period could serve as a critical step in preventing gun-related incidents, advocating for a more cautious approach to firearm transactions. Conversely, opponents have raised concerns about potential infringements on individual rights, perceiving the bill as an unnecessary burden on legal purchasers. This dichotomy illustrates the broader national conversation surrounding gun control and the varying perceptions of safety and liberty in relation to firearm access.

Companion Bills

WI AB324

Crossfiled An Act to amend 175.35 (title), 175.35 (2) (d) and 175.35 (2g) (c) 4. c. of the statutes; Relating to: waiting period for purchase of handguns.

Previously Filed As

WI AB324

Waiting period for purchase of handguns.

WI HB1427

A BILL to amend and reenact § 18.2-308.2:2 of the Code of Virginia, relating to purchase of handguns; limitation on handgun purchases.

WI HB700

A BILL to amend and reenact §§ 18.2-308.2:2 and 18.2-308.2:5 of the Code of Virginia, relating to purchase of firearms; waiting period; penalties.

WI SB0428

Health occupations: health professionals; licensure of anesthesiologist assistants; provide for. Amends secs. 7303a, 17001, 17011, 17501 & 17511 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.7303a et seq.) & adds secs. 16325a, 17034, 17034a, 17034b, 17534, 17534a & 17534b.

WI HB4832

Health occupations: health professionals; licensure of anesthesiologist assistants; provide for. Amends secs. 7303a, 17001, 17011, 17501 & 17511 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.7303a et seq.) & adds secs. 16325a, 17034, 17034a, 17034b, 17534, 17534a & 17534b.

WI LD1230

An Act to Abolish the 72-hour Waiting Period for a Gun Purchase

WI HB700

Firearms; waiting period for purchase, penalties.

WI LD208

An Act to Eliminate the 72-hour Waiting Period on Firearm Purchases

WI HB1427

Handguns; limitation on purchases, exemption.

WI HB4790

Health occupations: physicians; continuing education on menopause and related conditions; provide for. Amends secs. 17033 & 17533 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.17033 & 333.17533).

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.