Approved: Bill that would eliminate 48-hour waiting period for handgun purchases heads to Walker's desk

MADISON — The Wisconsin Assembly has approved a bill that would eliminate the state's decades-old 48-hour waiting period for handgun purchases.


The Assembly passed the proposal on a voice vote Tuesday, June 9th.

It now heads to Governor Scott Walker's desk.

Senate Republicans passed the bill in April, dismissing Democrats' concerns that the measure would make it easier for people to purchase handguns in a fit of rage. Asked whether the governor supports the measure, his spokeswoman said only that Walker supports laws making it easier for law-abiding citizens to access firearms and hard for criminals to get them.

Ten states and the District of Columbia currently impose some form of waiting period for buying handguns. Wisconsin's 48-hour period has been effect since 1976.

The National Rifle Association supports eliminating the waiting period. Groups working to curb domestic violence oppose it.