GOP Lawmaker Plans Bill Holding Gun-Free Businesses Liable For Firearm Injuries

A Republican state lawmaker said he plans to introduce a bill that would hold gun-free zone businesses legally liable for injuries inflicted by weapons banned on their property.

Rep. Bob Gannon, R-Slinger, who has been an outspoken critic of gun-free zones, said the bill gives citizens a better chance of defending themselves and their loved ones.

“When we have 49 deaths and 50-some injuries in Orlando, to think that we could not have saved one life there is silly,” he said.

Under current law, businesses that allow concealed carry are not held liable for injuries inflicted by weapons legally carried onto their premises. Gannon’s proposal would add that gun-free businesses would be held liable.

In a press release, he likened businesses banning guns to waterparks banning floatation devices.

The bill is only partially a response to the Orlando shooting, Gannon said. Mostly, it’s “closing the circle” on Wisconsin’s existing concealed carry law.

Gannon said he’s heard from multiple lawmakers who are supportive of the measure, and is optimistic it will pass during the next legislative session. He plans to introduce more bills in a “portfolio” of related legislation.

“We’re living in a different world today, it’s a more dangerous world, and we’ve all got to be vigilant and participate in our own self defense and security,” he said.

Opponents to the measure say it will hurt business in the state.