A pair of pro-knife bills have been filed in Wisconsin, Assembly Bill 142 and Senate Bill 102, that would amend state law to allow for the manufacture and sale of switchblade (automatic) knives and the possession and carry of autos by "qualified law enforcement officers, qualified former law enforcement officers, and persons who have a license to carry a concealed weapon, including certain out-of-state licenses." In addition it clarifies that assisted-opening folders (which have a bias towards closure) are not switchblades. While we always prefer to eliminate restrictions entirely, this would be a positive development in a state that has not been particularly knife-friendly.

As soon as it is appropriate, we will let you know that it is time to call or write Wisconsin legislators on these bills.

The bills are sponsored by Representatives Kathleen Bernier, Joel Kleefisch, James Edming, Bob Gannon, Cody Horlacher, Chris Kapenga, Jesse Kremer, Scott Krug, Thomas Larson, Jeffrey Mursau, John Murtha, Keith Ripp, Jeremy Thiesfeldt and Paul Tittl in the Assembly and by Senators Terry Moulton, Van Wanggaard and Sheila Harsdorf in the Senate. The primary sponsors of both bills are members of the Wisconsin Sportsmen's Caucus, as are 12 of 14 sponsors in the Assembly and 2 of 3 in the Senate.

The bills have been referred to the respective Committees on Criminal Justice and Public Safety. In the Assembly that committee is Chaired and Co-Chaired by AB 142 sponsors and the Senate committee is Chaired by an SB 102 Sponsor.