4 lawmakers to introduce bipartisan legislation they believe will help curb gun violence in Milwaukee

MADISON -- Senator Alberta Darling, R-River Hills said in a statement to FOX6 News on Thursday, January 19th she and three other lawmakers are set to introduce a bill they believe will help curb gun violence in Milwaukee.

The bi-partisan bill will be introduced by Darling, Senator LaTonya Johnson, D-Milwaukee, Rep. Joe Sanfelippo, R-New Berlin and Rep. David Bowen, D-Milwaukee.

Darling said the bill will help take guns out of the hands of criminals who aren't allowed to have them in the first place.

"This bill gives prosecutors more opportunities to take criminals off the street. We've worked together with local officials for months to find a bipartisan solution that will make Milwaukee safer," Darling said in the statement.

Senator Darling said the bill would do the following:

Darling said they're currently seeking co-sponsors for the legislation.

Meanwhile, Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett issued this statement regarding the legislation:

“I am grateful for the leadership of Senator Alberta Darling and the co-sponsors of this bill, Senator LaTonya Johnson, and Representatives Joe Sanfelippo and David Bowen.  I am pleased they share my commitment to making Milwaukee safer and keeping firearms out of the hands of habitual criminals.  I applaud the bi-partisan support and am hopeful all members of the legislature put their support behind this important bill.”

Milwaukee Police Chief Ed Flynn issued this statement:

"With the passing of this bill, Milwaukee will be made safer by prohibiting career criminals who currently may legally carry a firearm, from carrying one in the future.  Adding penalties for furnishing or possessing a firearm for a prohibited person will add real consequences for those who aid in arming felony offenders."

Monitor FOX6 News and FOX6Now.com for updates on this developing story.