Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB411

Introduced
9/6/23  
Refer
9/6/23  

Caption

Excusing certain persons from jury service. (FE)

Impact

If passed, AB411 would bring about notable changes to the current statutes governing jury service in the state. This legislation would enable more individuals to be excused from jury duty without facing penalties, thereby promoting a system that recognizes personal challenges. Advocates argue that the bill would not only relieve undue stress on those who cannot serve but also encourage a more engaged citizenry, as they would feel supported in their civic duty. Opponents, however, may argue that providing such exemptions might lead to a less representative jury pool.

Summary

AB411 proposes specific exemptions for certain individuals from jury service. The bill is formulated with the intent to alleviate the burden on individuals who may have valid reasons for not being able to serve on a jury. This includes individuals such as those with specific disabilities, caregivers, or individuals facing significant hardships. By easing the demand on these individuals, the bill aims to create a more equitable jury selection process that acknowledges personal circumstances while maintaining the integrity of the judicial system.

Contention

The discussions surrounding AB411 have highlighted critical questions regarding balancing civic duty with personal circumstances. While proponents see the bill as a necessary reform to ensure that no individual is unduly burdened by their civic responsibilities, opponents express concern about potential impacts on the jury system's effectiveness. Critics worry that an increased number of exemptions could lead to jury shortages, complicating the court system and delaying justice for those involved in legal proceedings. Negotiations around the specifics of the exemptions and how they are to be administered are expected as the bill moves forward.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WI HB2637

Relating to the practice and procedures for summoning prospective grand jurors and petit jurors and the exemption of certain persons from grand jury and petit jury service.

WI SB1647

Relating to the practice and procedures for summoning prospective grand jurors and petit jurors and the exemption of certain persons from grand jury and petit jury service.

WI SB2095

Excusing law enforcement officers from jury duty; and to provide for application.

WI A3433

Excuses person 70 years of age or older from jury service.

WI A103

Creates new excuse from jury service; directs AOC to create and maintain list of persons excused from jury duty due to developmental disability.

WI H0560

Amends existing law to allow prospective jurors in certain circumstances to volunteer as poll workers in lieu of serving on a jury.

WI A3593

Creates excuse from jury service for students enrolled in certain education programs.

WI HB1936

Changes the age when a person may be excused from serving on a petit and grand jury

WI SB2095

A BILL for an Act to amend and reenact section 27-09.1-11 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to excusing law enforcement officers from jury duty; and to provide for application.

WI H7144

Makes those persons seventy (70) years of age or older exempt from jury service.

Similar Bills

MI SB0372

Housing: landlord and tenants; reuse of certain tenant screening reports; allow. Amends title & sec. 1 of 1972 PA 348 (MCL 554.601) & adds secs. 1e, 1f, 1g & 1h.

NJ A1580

Exempts judges and justices from jury duty.

NJ A1956

Clarifies excuse from jury service for members of the military or reserve under certain circumstances; repeals N.J.S.38A:4-6.

AZ HB2128

Environmental remediation; liability; release

MI HB4995

Housing: landlord and tenants; prohibition of the use of prospective tenants' credit scores as a sole deciding factor for lease eligibility and allowance for landlords to accept reusable screening reports; provide for. Amends title & sec. 1 of 1972 PA 348 (MCL 554.601) & adds secs. 1e, 1f, 1g & 1h.

WI SB1057

Access to prospective tenants’ credit scores and consumer credit reports.

WI AB1058

Access to prospective tenants’ credit scores and consumer credit reports.

UT HB0141

Adoption Modifications