This website exists because of a family tragedy. Brandon Gelzer took his own life and will be forever 24, just a few days short of his 25th birthday. He was a bright, outgoing carpenter and entrepreneur. He loved his family, girlfriend, travel and music. He collected tools and enjoyed working outdoors.
His last two years of life were dominated by bi-polar disorder. After extensive outpatient treatment and several incidents he was committed to a hospital against his will as a danger to himself. A court verified the hospitalization.
Within three months of release and in worsening condition, he took up a new hobby. He bought handguns from a local retailer. Despite his hospitalization he easily passed a background check.
WIisconsin is one of a dwindling number of states that have this loophole. The State Department of Justice conducts a background check that does not include a search of Federal databases. This means, that in addition to Brandon, someone hospitalized in another state would be able to easily purchase a firearm in Wisconsin.
We have a chance to plug this loophole. Thanks to Representatives Gunderson and Richards, and Senators Darling and Harsdorf, Assembly Bill 70 and Senate Bill 44 have been introduced that will restore common sense.
This site has background information on the legislation, an analysis of the bill and suggestions for help. You can also read letters from Brandon's family and his girlfriend Angela.
Read on and Join us.
Contact your representatives about this important issue directly via this Web site.
Scott Gelzer & Patricia Wyzbinski
www.brandonswyzbinskigelzer.com
