In February 2016, Governor Scott Walker signed Assembly Bill 142 into law, making significant changes to the legal status of knives in Wisconsin. These changes, which impact concealed carry and switchblade laws, also include new preemption laws and updates to other related regulations. Here’s a breakdown of the key points and what it means for Wisconsin residents.
Changes to Wisconsin Concealed Carry Knife & Switchblade Laws
Before the new law, switchblades (also known as automatic knives) were prohibited under Wisconsin Statute 941.24. However, AB 142 repealed this statute, removing restrictions on the concealed carry of all knives, including switchblades.
Important Exceptions
- If an individual is prohibited by law from possessing a firearm, they are also prohibited from carrying a concealed knife under certain circumstances.
- Specifically, Wisconsin Statute 941.29 and 941.231 deal with the rules regarding carrying a concealed knife for people who are restricted from owning a firearm.
If someone is prohibited from possessing a firearm, such as a convicted felon, or is restricted under a restraining order or parole conditions, they could face criminal penalties for carrying a concealed knife, even if it is not a firearm. Violating this law could lead to a Class A misdemeanor, which carries potential penalties of up to 9 months in jail, fines up to $10,000, or both.
If you have questions about whether this statute applies to you, it’s important to consult with a knowledgeable attorney to understand your rights.
New Wisconsin Preemption Laws Regarding Knives
Wisconsin has expanded its preemption law to include knives. This means that cities, towns, villages, and counties cannot pass local ordinances that are stricter than the state law. Essentially, state law overrides local knife regulations…