In a last-minute effort, Milwaukee City Council member Scott Spiker failed to pass two new gun control ordinances before the Republican National Convention (RNC). 

Spiker proposed banning bump stocks and imposing $5,000 fines for disorderly conduct involving dangerous weapons. However, the city’s attorney warned that banning bump stocks would violate Wisconsin’s firearm preemption law, risking a lawsuit. Consequently, the Common Council rejected this proposal, according to WISN12.

The second ordinance aimed at imposing hefty fines for disorderly conduct with dangerous weapons also failed after extensive debate. Concerns arose about the potential for disproportionate enforcement in minority neighborhoods, leading to its rejection. Milwaukee Ald. Mark Chambers Jr. expressed fears that the ordinance could unfairly impact racially segregated areas, emphasizing the need for more dialogue.

Despite the legal concerns, Spiker managed to gain a recommendation from the Public Safety and Health Committee for the bump stock ban. He urged the Common Council to adopt it, arguing that it would pressure the mayor to take action on gun control. Nevertheless, the majority of the Common Council sided with the city attorney’s assessment, sending the ordinance back to the committee.

Spiker’s previous actions added to the controversy. He had opposed a gun control proposal that would have banned concealed carry in certain security zones around the RNC, citing legal concerns. 

Ultimately, Milwaukee’s Common Council chose to adhere to state law, ensuring that Second Amendment rights would remain intact during the RNC.