Firearm Self-Exclusion Program focuses on reducing Wisconsin suicides

MADISON, Wis. — State Rep. Melissa Sargent (D-Madison) announced new legislation aimed at preventing and reducing suicide in Wisconsin by creating the Firearm Self-Exclusion Program.

This program would allow citizens to voluntarily prohibit themselves from purchasing a handgun in Wisconsin. It comes in recognition of National Suicide Prevention Week.

“We’re not just raising awareness about suicide, we’re making it socially acceptable for people to take action to keep themselves safe,” Sargent said.

In Wisconsin, nearly half of suicides involve firearms, according to Sargent, and this proposal is an effort to raise awareness and save lives.

The legislation is modeled after self-exclusion programs in other sates, including the Midwestern states of Michigan, Illinois and Iowa. The bill is co-authored by State Sen. Latonya Johnson (D-Milwaukee) and is currently circulating for co-sponsorship.

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