MADISON (WKOW) — Governor Tony Evers will meet with Republican leaders to talk about gun control measures despite Republicans’ concerns over proposals like so-called red flag laws.
Governor Evers and Attorney General Josh Kaul called on the Republican controlled state legislature to consider red flag laws and universal background checks after two mass shootings over the weekend.
After Republican leadership agreed to meet with the governor, Assembly Speaker Robin Vos tweeted that he won’t support ideas that “take away second amendment rights or due process.”
“Hopefully, we can find common ground on the real problem by addressing the mental health issues facing Wisconsin,” Vos wrote in a tweet.
Earlier in the day, Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald said in a statement to 27 News the events over the weekend were “tragic” but stopped short on what proposals will be considered.
“As we come back for the fall session, our caucus will have discussions around all newly proposed legislation, like we always do,” said Fitzgerald.
As lawmakers debate gun reform, Dane County Sheriff Dave Mahoney is urging lawmakers to act now. He supports red flag laws but also opposes taking guns away from lawful citizens or their ability to purchase one.
“There are people in our community that should not possess them (guns) and uniformly all of us should support removing firearms from those individuals,” said Mahoney.
Red flag laws are currently adopted in 17 states and are also referred to as “extreme risk protection orders.” Theyallow officers or family members to petition courts to temporarily take guns away from someone who they believe poses a threat to themselves or others.
In January, Attorney General Josh Kaul called for passing these laws but to date, there’s been no action in the legislature.
More at WKOW 27 News