Madison – Representative John Spiros (R-Marshfield) released the following statement after his bill to address rising carjacking numbers was signed into law:
“The tragic results of carjackings are in the news every day: a nurse pistol whipped leaving work, a mom begging at gunpoint to get her baby out of the backseat, and a man beaten to death before his car is stolen,” Rep. Spiros said. “I am pleased that both sides of the aisle understand the necessity and critical nature of this bipartisan legislation, and that the Governor agrees strong carjacking laws are advantageous to Wisconsinites.”
The Governor signed 2023 Wisconsin Act 10 in Milwaukee on Wednesday. The bill defines carjacking in state statute and sets the penalty for carjacking with use or threat of a dangerous weapon as a Class B felony. Wisconsin is experiencing a disturbing rise in carjackings: a 93% jump from 2012 to 2021 in Milwaukee, and a 40% increase during the first quarter of 2023 compared to 2022.
“As Chairman of the Assembly Committee on Criminal Justice and Public Safety, I understand better than anyone the importance of safe communities,” Rep. Spiros added. “This legislation will address one aspect of rising crime as we continue to work towards making sure Wisconsinites have peace of mind as they go through daily life.”
2023 Wisconsin Act 10 took effect immediately. The legislation previously passed both chambers of the Legislature with bipartisan support.