Area sheriff may opt out of state concealed gun program

MILWAUKEE -- About 90 percent of Wisconsin sheriffs would ask to opt out of the proposed concealed weapons bill if it became law because they do not have the resources to conduct adequate background checks on applicants, a spokesman for a sheriffs association says.

Shawano County Sheriff Bob Schmidt might ask to opt out of the program, which he calls another unfunded for local officials mandated by the state.

"At this point, the way it's written we can't just take on more work without added personnel," explained Schmidt. "It's been estimated it will cost us $19,000 alone just for the equipment. The cost of just an electronic background check would not be real severe, but to allow people to have a concealed weapon and to conduct an extensive background check as sheriff's want could cost Shawano County $100,000 to $300,000 a year."

A concealed weapons bill has passed the Assembly and Senate. The Senate is expected to vote Tuesday on another version with more limitations of where the weapons could be carried. Gov. Jim Doyle has promised to veto the legislation.

Sheriffs in participating counties would be required to issue permits to applicants who meet a series of requirements. They would have to be at least 21, a Wisconsin resident and have completed an approved firearm training or safety course.

The state Department of Justice estimates 35,000 people would apply for a permit in the first year after the bill took effect.

Klier recalls his service and the service of others

It isn't only on Veteran's Day but every day that Jim Klier is respectful of the servicemen and women who have fought for our peace and safety.

Area sheriff may opt out of state concealed gun program

MILWAUKEE -- About 90 percent of Wisconsin sheriffs would ask to opt out of the proposed concealed weapons bill if it became law because they do not have the resources to conduct adequate background checks on applicants, a spokesman for a sheriffs association says.

State builds Milwaukee prison, to sell it to group and rent it back

MADISON -- The state is building a $5.8 million prison only to sell it at cost to a for-profit company that will charge the state rent -- as much as $7.6 million over 20 years.

State regulators approve plan to build two power plants

MADISON (AP) -- State regulators Monday formally approved a utility's plan to build two coal-fired power plants in southeastern Wisconsin but rejected We Energies' proposal to build a third.