Wisconsin Democrats, led by state Sen. Kelda Roys (D), are moving to strip licensed gun owners of their right to carry for self-defense on college campuses. The proposal, introduced September 4, 2025, would outlaw firearms entirely on university and college property, even for individuals who hold valid concealed carry licenses.
According to the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Daily Cardinal, the measure would “make it illegal for anyone — including those who have concealed carry licenses — to possess a firearm anywhere on university or college property.” Police officers would remain exempt under the bill.
Defending her proposal, Roys claimed that limiting firearms is necessary to protect students. “When people have unfettered access to firearms, we can’t live free from the fear of gun violence,” she argued. Yet she did not cite a single case of a licensed concealed carrier committing gun violence on a Wisconsin campus.
Critics point to the fact that concealed carry license holders are among the most law-abiding demographics in the country. Research by criminologist John Lott has shown that firearms violations by permit holders occur at fractions of a percent, significantly lower than rates among the general population. In fact, a Breitbart News report from 2017 cited Lott’s findings that police officers are convicted of firearms violations at higher rates than concealed carriers.
For gun rights advocates, the proposal represents a troubling overreach that would disarm law-abiding citizens while doing nothing to deter criminals who ignore gun laws. Students, faculty, and staff with permits would be left defenseless in the very environments where active shooters have previously struck.
If enacted, Wisconsin would join a handful of states that ban lawful carry on campus, reigniting the debate over whether such policies improve safety or leave potential victims vulnerable.
