Today, January 7, two gun related bills are scheduled for hearings in Wisconsin that directly impact the safety of our children and communities. One of these bills, AB609, would eliminate the requirement for a concealed carry permit. If passed, it would allow individuals to carry concealed firearms in most public places without any required training, education, or demonstrated understanding of firearm safety. The second bill would seek to amend the Wisconsin Constitution by removing language that clarifies firearms should be possessed for a lawful purpose. This change would weaken existing safeguards meant to balance rights with responsibility. Henry was sixteen years old when he was killed by his father during a scheduled visit. There were warning signs. There were opportunities to intervene. If Wisconsin had an extreme risk law in place, a judge could have temporarily removed firearms and Henry would still be here today.

Henry’s petition exists because no family should have to learn the hard way that inaction has consequences. While some lawmakers are pushing to weaken gun safety protections, families like mine are asking for commonsense laws that prioritize prevention and protect innocent lives. The majority of Wisconsinites support responsible gun policies that value human life and public safety. I urge you to contact your legislators and ask them to oppose AB609 and any efforts that weaken existing safeguards, and to support laws that give families and courts the tools they need to intervene before tragedy occurs.

Please continue to share Henry’s story, sign the petition, and speak up. Every name added is a reminder that this is about real children, real families, and lives that cannot be replaced.

Thank you for standing with Henry.