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Gov. Tony Evers calls special session on gun violence
Gov. Tony Evers calls special session on gun violence
MADISON — Governor Tony Evers on Monday, Oct. 21 called the Wisconsin Legislature to take action on gun violence -- announcing a special session on the topic during a press conference at Milwaukee's City Hall.
Gov. Evers calls special session on gun control
Gov. Evers signed executive order #54. By doing so, he urged the Republican-controlled Legislature to take action on gun reform.
"This is the right thing to do, and we're planning on winning this battle," Ever said.
Evers said he wants lawmakers to vote on two bills during a special session in November. One would enforce universal background checks. The second would allow the courts to remove guns from individuals who may harm themselves or someone else.
Gov. Evers calls special session on gun control
"We're not talking about theory here," said Gov. Evers. "We're talking about actions that the Legislature can take that will literally save lives in the state of Wisconsin."
Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett
The announcement received praise from Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett, who knows all too well about the consequences of gun violence, with more than 400 people have been shot in the city in 2019.
Meanwhile, Republican leaders in Madison described Evers' move as an attack on the Second Amendment.
"Today's call is another indication that Governor Evers stands ready to confiscate guns in our state," said Assembly Speaker Robin Vos.
A poll from over the summer showed 80% of Wisconsinites support gun safety laws -- including gun owners. Voters FOX6 News spoke with on Monday were split on the issue.
"I've heard that so many times and I don't think it's going to solve the problem," said Ted Sparangis of West Allis.
"I think everybody should go along with what Evers wants to be done," said Angela Santiago of Milwaukee. "Because, I mean, we got innocent people dying."
The executive order did not force lawmakers to vote on or even debate the bills, but Gov. Evers said the special session would shine a spotlight on who does or does not take action on this subject.
Reaction to the special session
State Senator Lena Taylor
Milwaukee Alderman Cavalier Johnson