Wisconsin Senate Bill SB685

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 11/15/23
• Refer: 11/15/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Transmitting and canvassing absentee ballots, use of central counting locations, election night reporting, whistleblower protection for municipal clerks, notifications and verifications concerning citizenship status, court determinations of incompetency and ineligibility to vote, and providing a penalty. (FE)

Impact

The implications of SB 685 encompass adjustments to various parts of state elections law, particularly in how and when absentee ballots are canvassed. By allowing early canvassing, there is a move toward increasing efficiencies, particularly relevant for higher voter turnout seen in general elections. However, it maintains the prohibition on tallying these votes until polls close, ensuring the integrity of the election outcomes. Additionally, the introduction of penalties for election officials who willfully neglect their duties serves to reinforce compliance and discourage misconduct during elections.

Summary

Senate Bill 685 is focused on revising the processes surrounding absentee ballots and voter eligibility within the election framework of Wisconsin. The bill comprises several amendments aimed at revamping the canvassing of absentee ballots, introducing early canvassing processes, and ensuring transparency in election night reporting. One of the significant changes includes allowing municipalities without a board of absentee ballot canvassers to begin processing absentee ballots the day before the election, subject to certain conditions. This could potentially expedite the counting process while maintaining strict accountability measures.

Contention

Notable areas of contention surrounding SB 685 include concerns about the balance between accessibility for voters and the potential for increased scrutiny of absentee ballots. Critics may argue that while the bill aims to streamline the voting process, its measures related to voter eligibility and citizenship verification could lead to disenfranchisement. Furthermore, the strict penalties for election officials could create an environment of fear that might affect how officials carry out their responsibilities, potentially leading to less flexibility in managing elections.