MADISON — Sen. Kelda Roys (D-Madison) and Rep. Lee Snodgrass (D-Appleton) released legislation Wednesday to create a voluntary do not purchase list for people who do not want to be able to purchase a handgun themselves. As we observe Suicide Prevention Month, this legislation is one way we can help people who may be experiencing depression or suicidal thoughts.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, the National Suicide Hotline is 988. You can call or text to reach a mental health professional.
Former State Representative Jonathan Brostoff died by suicide on November 5, 2024. Jonathan was a vocal advocate for access to mental health services and gun control measures to prevent deaths. He championed several proposals that may have helped him and others with suicidal ideation. This legislation is an example of how we can support people in protecting themselves from gun violence.
Sen. Kelda Roys (D-Madison) issued the following statement:
“We all deserve to live free from the fear of gun violence — whether that be in public or in the comfort of our homes. Last year, many of us in the capitol lost a dear friend in Jonathan Brostoff, and there are many more people around the state who died by suicide using a gun. It is our hope that we can honor their memories by offering a helping hand to anyone who is struggling with thoughts of self-harm.”
Rep. Lee Snodgrass (D-Appleton) issued the following statement:
“An individual experiencing suicide ideation should be able to take steps to protect themselves. An important step that has been missing from statute is the ability to place one’s self on a ‘Voluntary Prohibition of Handgun Purchases’ list. A constituent came to me in a time of crisis, feeling helpless that when they hoped to add themselves to a ‘do not sell’ list, found there was no process and no such list. Thankfully, my constituent is thriving today and we are grateful for their advocacy on this issue to help save lives in the future.”
