WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 946

Relating to: containers or trigger locks provided at a firearm sale and providing a penalty.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Dianne Hesselbein and 3 co-sponsors

Wisconsin bill requiring gun dealers to provide locking containers or trigger locks with firearm sales to reduce unauthorized access and accidental injuries.

Senator Keyeski added as a coauthor
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 946

Legislative bill overview

SB 946 requires licensed firearms dealers in Wisconsin to provide either a locking container or trigger lock with every firearm sale. Violations would result in penalties, likely civil or criminal, against the dealer for non-compliance.

Why is this important

Child access prevention and unintentional firearm deaths are persistent public health concerns. This bill attempts to create a barrier between unauthorized users—particularly children—and newly purchased firearms by mandating secure storage devices at the point of sale, potentially reducing accidental injuries and deaths.

Potential points of contention

  • Second Amendment interpretation: Critics may argue this places an unfunded mandate on dealers and effectively increases the cost/burden of exercising Second Amendment rights, while supporters see it as reasonable regulation of commerce
  • Effectiveness and enforcement: Questions about whether mandatory hardware usage actually reduces accidents (people may not use provided locks) and how violations would realistically be detected and prosecuted
  • Business impact: Firearms dealers would bear the cost of providing locks/containers, potentially affecting small dealers differently than large retailers, and may face administrative burdens in compliance verification

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.