Assembly approves bill that would allow people to carry switchblades

MADISON — The Wisconsin Assembly on Tuesday, October 27th approved a bill that would allow people to carry switchblades.

The Republican bill would eliminate the state's prohibition on possessing, purchasing and selling switchblades, defined as any knife with a blade that opens by pressing a button, spring or other device in the handle, with gravity or with a thrusting movement.

The bill also would prohibit local governments from enacting ordinances or resolutions regulating knives that are stricter than state law. It also would allow people who can legally possess a firearm to carry concealed knives considered dangerous weapons under state law without a concealed carry license. State law doesn't clearly define which knives are dangerous, however.

The measure now goes to the Senate.