Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

Wisconsin Assembly Bill AJR77

Introduced
9/29/23  
Refer
9/29/23  
Refer
11/6/23  

Caption

Prohibiting state and local governments from using privately sourced moneys or equipment in connection with the conduct of elections and specifying who may perform tasks related to the conduct of an election (second consideration).

Impact

If enacted, AJR77 would significantly alter the legal framework surrounding election administration in the state. It would prevent state agencies and local government officials from accepting, expending, or using moneys or equipment obtained from private donations or grants for election purposes. This change is expected to centralize control and standardize methods of election management across jurisdictions, therefore potentially reducing the influence of private interests in public elections.

Summary

AJR77 is a proposed constitutional amendment that aims to prohibit state and local governments from utilizing privately sourced funds and equipment for conducting elections. The bill establishes clear rules about the funding of election administration, specifying that only designated election officials may perform tasks related to primaries, elections, and referendums. The amendment is intended to promote integrity and transparency within the electoral process by ensuring that all election-related activities are managed through publicly allocated resources rather than private contributions.

Contention

Discussions regarding AJR77 highlight notable points of contention among legislators and advocacy groups. Supporters argue that this measure will enhance the integrity of elections by eliminating the possibility of undue influence from private entities, thereby fostering trust in the democratic process. Conversely, opponents express concern that such restrictions might hinder operational flexibility, potentially resulting in budgetary constraints or underresourced elections, particularly impacting smaller jurisdictions that may rely on private donations to supplement public funding.

Proceedings

AJR77 is scheduled to undergo a second consideration by the legislature before being submitted for voter ratification, expected to take place during the April 2024 elections. The bill's history recalls previous efforts to amend similar provisions, underscoring ongoing dialogues about election integrity and the funding landscape. The outcome of AJR77 may set a significant precedent for how elections are financed and managed in the state moving forward.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WI HB0228

Prohibition on private funds for conducting elections.

WI SB2177

Local bond elections; modifying date when certain elections may be conducted. Emergency.

WI HB658

Elections; allows for any local or constitutional office to be conducted by ranked choice voting.

WI SB6

Prohibiting the use of ranked-choice voting methods for conducting elections.

WI HB177

In-person absentee voting; authorize to be conducted using OMR equipment.

WI HF2343

State primary date changed from August to May, and date of primary elections conducted by a political subdivision changed in certain circumstances.

WI HB1001

Relating to the use of paper ballots and certain electronic devices in conducting an election.

WI SB77

Relating to the use of paper ballots and certain electronic devices in conducting an election.

WI HB2659

Requiring that all election audits and recounts be conducted using a hand count of paper ballots.

WI SB01407

An Act Concerning Audits Conducted By The State Elections Enforcement Commission.

Similar Bills

NJ SCR43

Proposes constitutional amendment authorizing Legislature to invalidate certain court decisions.

CA SB699

Legislature: constitutional course.

TX SJR54

Applying to the Congress of the United States to call a convention under Article V of the United States Constitution for the limited purpose of proposing one or more amendments to the constitution to impose fiscal restraints on the federal government, to limit the power and jurisdiction of the federal government, and to limit the terms of office of federal officials and members of Congress.

TX HJR98

Applying to the Congress of the United States to call a convention under Article V of the United States Constitution for the limited purpose of proposing one or more amendments to the constitution to impose fiscal restraints on the federal government, to limit the power and jurisdiction of the federal government, and to limit the terms of office of federal officials and members of Congress.

HI SB2265

Proposing Amendments To The Hawaii State Constitution To Enable Legislation By The People.

HI SB1225

Proposing An Amendment To Article Xvii, Section 3 Of The Hawaii Constitution To Specify That The Standard For Voter Approval Of A Constitutional Amendment Proposed By The Legislature Is A Majority Of All The Votes Tallied Upon The Question.

HI SB1225

Proposing An Amendment To Article Xvii, Section 3 Of The Hawaii Constitution To Specify That The Standard For Voter Approval Of A Constitutional Amendment Proposed By The Legislature Is A Majority Of All The Votes Tallied Upon The Question.

HI SB2315

Proposing An Amendment To Article Xvii, Section 3 Of The Hawaii State Constitution To Specify That The Standard For Voter Approval Of A Constitutional Amendment Proposed By The Legislature Is A Majority Of All The Votes Tallied Upon The Question.