Today, Senate Bill 35 was passed by the Wisconsin state Senate on a voice vote.  SB 35, authored by state Senator Van Wanggaard (R-21), would repeal Wisconsin’s antiquated 48-hour waiting period for handgun purchases.  Senate Bill 35 will now head over to the Assembly.

The 48-Hour Rule for handgun purchases was first enacted in Wisconsin in 1976, prior to background checks on handgun sales.  Due to the advent of instant background checks, such as the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), the 48-hour waiting period has become an unnecessary time tax on both the purchaser and the dealer.  SB 35 would repeal the waiting period requirement and allow a licensed firearm dealer to transfer ownership of a handgun following notice from the Department of Justice that the background check indicates that the purchaser is not prohibited from possessing a firearm.  

Please contact your state Representative and respectfully urge him or her to vote in SUPPORT of SB 35 when it comes before them.  Your NRA-ILA will keep you updated on any further developments with this legislation.  

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