On this page, we've put information on a few of our main issues. To learn more, browse the links below, or click on an issue above to go to a specific section. (Some of the files below require Adobe Acrobat Reader)
concealed weapons
Wisconsin has prohibited citizens from carrying concealed weapons for more than 130 years. Scientific evidence, experience, public opinion and common sense are all in agreement: Legalizing the carrying of hidden, loaded guns in public will not increase personal safety, and these laws are not effective in decreasing crime. Wisconsin already has one of the lowest violent crime rates in the country, and, unlike most of the states that passed a shall-issue CCW law, Wisconsin has a low firearm death rate, as well. Also, because the fees associated with the permitting process will not cover the actual costs, this will be a taxpayer subsidized program. Our state should not have to endure the costs-- both human and financial-- of CCW.
WAVE opposes any legislation that would allow citizens to carry concealed weapons in public.
What happens when the fox guards the hen house (or the NRA writes our gun laws)?Open Carry “Hero” Charged with HomicideAmericans Oppose and Feel Unsafe with Open Carry. Women Strongest in Opposing Guns in Public.Shooting Down Gun LawsWatch Video: WAVE Responds to “Open Carry” Gun Picnic In Green BayClick here to see the Concealed Weapons archives.
criminal background checks
Currently, prospective gun purchasers are required to show identification and undergo a criminal background check only when purchasing a gun from a licensed firearm dealer. Unlicensed dealers and individuals sell approximately half of all guns in Wisconsin.
WAVE favors legislation that would extend the current background check system to all gun transactions.
Private-Party Gun Sales, Regulation, and Public SafetyWatch Our New Video4th Street Forum - WAVE’s executive director joins other community leaders to discuss gun policy in Wisconsin - May 6thWe Can’t Stop Now - It’s Time to Take the Next StepClick here to see the Criminal Background Checks archives.
assault weapons
With the expiration of the federal assault weapons ban in September of 2004, civilian possession and use of military-style guns is again legal. Assault weapons have been used disproportionately in mass killings and the slayings of law enforcement officers. Especially at a time of heightened homeland security, it is irresponsible to allow civilian possession of .50 caliber sniper rifles, which are marketed for their ability to penetrate an armored vehicle and to bring down a helicopter from more than one mile away. Even individuals within the gun industry have admitted that there is no sporting purpose for .50 caliber sniper rifles or assault weapons and their high-capacity magazines.
WAVE favors legislation that would ban military-style weapons, including .50 caliber sniper rifles and assault weapons and their high capacity magazines in Wisconsin.
Click here to see the Assault Weapons archives.
legislation
When the Wisconsin Legislature is in session, WAVE will be following some proposed bills very closely-- they could mean the difference between citizens' safety, and the NRA's insanity. You can read about passed and upcoming legislation on the legislature's official website. Stay tuned to this space for information about specific legislation when we post it.
We Can’t Stop Now - It’s Time to Take the Next Step
New National Study Says Background Checks On All Gun Sales Will Prevent Gun Violence
Volunteer to Collect Postcards in Your Community
Your Help Is Needed to Get Illegal Guns Off the Streets
Click here to see the Legislation archives.
links
Here, we've collected a few other anti-gun violence resources on the Internet. Click the links below to visit these other sites.
Coalition to Stop Gun Violence
Freedom States Alliance
Gun Guys
Johns Hopkins Center for Gun Policy and Research
Legal Community Against Violence
Physicians for Social Responsibility
The Brady Center to Prevent Gun Violence
Violence Prevention Research Program
.50 Caliber Terror
Newspaper Loophole
License to Murder
Ceasefire Maryland, Inc.
CeaseFire PA
Colorado Ceasefire
Connecticut Against Gun Violence Education Fund
Gun Violence Prevention Center of Utah
Hoosiers Concerned About Gun Violence
Illinois Council Against Handgun Violence
Iowans for the Prevention of Gun Violence
Michigan Partnership to Prevent Gun Violence
New Yorkers Against Gun Violence
North Carolinians Against Gun Violence
Ohio Coalition Against Gun Violence
Pennsylvanians Against Handgun Violence
Virginians Against Handgun Violence
Youth ALIVE!