Local law enforcement agencies around Wisconsin have a lot of unanswered questions about a bill legalizing concealed carry. However, at least one sheriff does not expect much risk to public safety once it’s signed into law by the governor.
Racine County Sheriff Christopher Schmaling says he has nothing to fear about law abiding citizens carrying a concealed gun, since the bill does require a permit, background check, and training. Schmaling says that will prevent the average citizen from just “strapping a weapon on their hip” without really knowing what kind of gun they have.
Schmaling says his deputies, and most law enforcement, already train to handle every encounter as if a weapon could be involved. As a result, he believes there will be little change in how his officers deal with calls.
He says the measure does involve a lot of responsibility, which he believes will turn some people off of the idea of carrying a concealed weapon. Schmaling just worries it could result in some people still not following the law and carrying without a license.
Governor Walker has indicated he plans to sign the bill approved by the Legislature earlier this month. However, his office has not yet announced when that will happen.
AUDIO: Andrew Beckett reports (1:06)
Tom Karkow, WRJN
