MADISON, Wis. (AP) -- The state Justice Department wants to spend another $788,000 to keep up with concealed carry applications.
People have overwhelmed DOJ with applications since a law legalizing hidden weapons in Wisconsin went into effect in November. The agency has received more than 120,000 applications so far.
DOJ has hired about 30 new employees to process applications and perform background checks on handgun buyers, but training time, worker turnover and the sheer number of applications and checks has slowed the agency.
DOJ officials asked the Legislature's budget committee on Wednesday for $384,500 to hire eight employees to replace eight limited-term concealed carry workers. The agency also wants $358,000 for more supplies and $46,000 to cover a new firearms unit supervisor and employee promotions.
