Wisconsin’s Personal Protection Act became effective November 1, 2011. The Act allows licensed individuals to carry concealed weapons anywhere in Wisconsin except the following locations:

• police stations
• correctional facilities
• secure mental health facilities
• courthouses
• on or in school grounds
• beyond airport security check points.

In general, to prohibit individuals from carrying firearms in their buildings and on their grounds, facilities, including restaurants and taverns, must post at least a 5 inch by 7 inch conspicuous sign near all entrances and probable access points to the building and grounds notifying individuals that they are prohibited from carrying firearms inside. Individuals who carry a firearm inside a building which has posted signs prohibiting firearms are guilty of statutory trespass and subject to a $1,000 fine.

The new law also contains a special provision for establishments that have been issued a “Class B” or Class “B” license or permit. In general, an individual is prohibited from intentionally carrying a handgun on any premises for which a “Class B” or Class “B” license or permit has been issued, unless the individual has been licensed to carry a concealed weapon and is not consuming alcohol on the premises. Individuals who violate this new rule are guilty of a Class A misdemeanor.

As a result of the new rule, only licensed individuals who are not consuming alcohol will be able to carry concealed weapons in establishments with “Class B” or Class “B” licenses or permits that do not post signs prohibiting weapons.

If you have additional questions about the new law, please contact Patrick P. Neuman at 608-283-1774 or at pneuman@boardmanclark.com.

The Author