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Bill

SB 945

Relating to: storage of firearms in retail facility when unattended.

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

Requires Wisconsin gun retailers to lock up firearms in secure storage when business locations are unattended to prevent theft and unauthorized access.

Failed to pass pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 1
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 945

Legislative bill overview

SB 945 would require firearms retailers to secure firearms in locked storage when the retail facility is unattended, preventing unauthorized access to weapons during non-business hours or when staff are absent. The bill establishes a safety standard for how gun shops must store inventory to reduce theft and misuse of unsecured firearms.

Why is this important

Unsecured firearms in retail settings can be theft targets for criminals seeking weapons without background checks, potentially contributing to illegal gun circulation. The bill addresses a practical safety gap in firearms retail operations, similar to requirements for other regulated products in commercial spaces.

Potential points of contention

  • Second Amendment concerns: Some gun rights advocates may argue the requirement constitutes an unreasonable burden on firearm commerce and constitutes de facto regulation of constitutional commerce
  • Business compliance costs: Retailers may contend that secure storage systems require significant capital investment and ongoing maintenance expenses that impact smaller shops disproportionately
  • Enforcement ambiguity: The bill's definition of "unattended" and what constitutes adequate "locked storage" may lack clarity, creating compliance uncertainty and potential disputes over violations
  • Existing safeguards: Gun lobby groups may argue retailers already follow security best practices voluntarily and that mandatory requirements duplicate existing industry standards

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

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