Gov. Scott Walker approves five-year concealed carry permits

MADISON - Permits to carry concealed weapons will be good for a full five years under legislation Gov. Scott Walker signed Monday.

Previously, when someone renewed a permit early, it was good for five years from the date it was issued — meaning the owner didn't get a full five years of use from the original permit.

Under Senate Bill 7, the renewed permit will be good until five years after the previous permit expired. This largely technical measure passed the Senate and Assembly last month on bipartisan votes.

The issue remains controversial, including a separate proposal to end the need for permits at all for someone who could legally qualify for an authorization today. The governor and his fellow Republican lawmakers approved concealed carry weapon permits in 2011, ending Wisconsin's status up until then as a holdout state that didn't allow the practice.

RELATED: Wisconsin Supreme Court approves passengers carrying guns on Madison buses

OPINION: A constitutional convention? No permits for concealed weapons? Welcome to Wisconsin