Two GOP state lawmakers on Wednesday introduced proposals that would allow Wisconsinites to carry concealed firearms.

Sen. Pam Galloway, R-Wausau, and Rep. Jeff Mursau, R-Crivitz, are sponsoring the measures.

The lawmakers have introduced two separate open carry proposals. Galloway's proposal in the Senate contains no provision for licensing, while Mursau's does.

Public hearings on the proposals are scheduled for May 12.

"It has been statistically demonstrated that crime goes down in a correlation with an increase in the ability and actual number of citizens who can and do carry concealed weaspons," Mursau said in a statement to colleagues seeking support for the measure.

Mursau's bill allows people to carry concealed weapons after first obtaining a license from the state Department of Justice after the department conducts a background check. The costs would be $13 for the background check, up to $52 for an application fee, and renewal fees of up to $27. The license is good for five years and applicants must be at least 21 years old.