Vote is in: Wisconsin Senate passes bill legalizing switchblades

MADISON — The state Senate has passed a bill that would allow people to carry concealed switchblades and knives.

The chamber passed the measure Wednesday on a voice vote with no debate. The Assembly passed the bill in November; it now goes to Gov. Scott Walker. His spokeswoman didn't immediately respond to an email inquiring about his support for the measure.

Manufacturing, selling, transporting, purchasing or possessing a switchblade has been illegal in Wisconsin for decades. Violators are subject to $10,000 in fines and nine months in jail.

The Republican-authored bill would eliminate the prohibition as well as allow anyone who can legally possess a gun to carry concealed knives of any length without a concealed carry license.

Local governments would be barred from enacting knife regulations stricter than state law.