To prevent suicide by firearm, Wisconsin lawmakers want gun shop owners to take control

[TexasTowelie]

MADISON - State legislators announced a slate of bipartisan bills Wednesday to improve suicide prevention efforts across Wisconsin.

Among the proposals is a bill that would train gun shop owners to recognize people who may be considering suicide and avoid selling them firearms, to distribute suicide prevention materials at their business, and to offer voluntary storage of firearms to limit a person's access during a time of crisis.

Should the bill pass Gov. Tony Evers' desk, it will release $150,000 every two years in grants for organizations that want to train gun retailers and gun range operators on those skills, using a nationwide model called the Gun Shop Project.

In other states where the project has been rolled out, tip sheets for retailers ask them to consider whether the purchaser shows no knowledge or interest in learning about the gun, does not appear to care which gun they purchase, mentions a recent crisis or makes comments that could suggest suicidality, or gives an unconvincing response when asked about prior shooting experience.

Read more: https://www.greenbaypressgazette.com/story/news/2019/09/25/suicide-prevention-wisconsin-lawmakers-propose-gun-shop-project/2440561001/

[Stargazer09]

1. I really like that

Not only could it help save lives from suicide, but will also make it easier for gun shop salespeople to refuse to sell a gun to someone they suspect is suicidal. “Hey, state law says I should offer you information about this suicide hotline. I think you might want to talk to someone before buying a gun.”

I have to wonder how many salespeople have sold guns to depressed people, knowing it’s a bad idea but feeling helpless to offer an alternative. This plan might actually be good for everyone.