Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

Wisconsin Senate Bill SB767

Introduced
12/8/23  
Refer
12/8/23  
Report Pass
2/15/24  
Engrossed
2/20/24  
Refer
3/14/24  

Caption

The provision of absentee ballots to nonresident students at the University of Wisconsin System. (FE)

Impact

Should SB767 pass, it would institutionalize the responsibilities of the University of Wisconsin System to support the voting process for nonresident students. The new statute will require the Board of Regents to implement policies ensuring compliance with the given provisions, making the voting process more accessible and structured for these students. Additionally, the board will need to review these policies biennially and submit annual reports to the legislature detailing the execution and challenges of the provisions, thereby holding the institutions accountable for their role in facilitating student voting.

Summary

Senate Bill 767 aims to enhance voting participation among nonresident students enrolled in the University of Wisconsin System by mandating that these students be provided with necessary information regarding absentee ballots. The bill requires the Board of Regents to ensure that first-year nonresident students receive an application to request an absentee ballot from their home state, along with comprehensive instructions on how to fill out and submit that ballot correctly. This initiative seeks to empower nonresident students by facilitating their engagement in the electoral process back home, recognizing the importance of their voices in elections.

Contention

Noteworthy points of contention surrounding SB767 may stem from concerns about the implications of offering absentee ballot assistance to nonresident students. Some lawmakers may argue that resources should not be allocated to assist students who do not reside in the state for voting purposes and may raise issues of fairness to local residents. Conversely, supporters advocate that all students, regardless of residency, should be encouraged to participate in elections, as their engagement contributes to democratic processes. Balancing these viewpoints while implementing the bill's provisions will be crucial to its acceptance.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WI SB1176

A University of Wisconsin System nonresident tuition exemption. (FE)

WI AB1232

A University of Wisconsin System nonresident tuition exemption. (FE)

WI HB1055

Modifies provisions for absentee ballots

WI SB606

Modifies provisions relating to absentee ballots

WI SB532

Course fees at University of Wisconsin System institutions. (FE)

WI AB545

Course fees at University of Wisconsin System institutions. (FE)

WI SB640

Tuition and fee remission or grants for certain veterans and their dependents enrolled in the University of Wisconsin System, a technical college, or a private nonprofit institution of higher education; and the University of Wisconsin System nonresident tuition exemption for certain veterans. (FE)

WI AB659

Tuition and fee remission or grants for certain veterans and their dependents enrolled in the University of Wisconsin System, a technical college, or a private nonprofit institution of higher education; and the University of Wisconsin System nonresident tuition exemption for certain veterans. (FE)

WI SB582

Absentee & provisional ballots; process & timing for rejected applications, rejected prov. ballots.

WI HB1300

Elections; provisional ballots; absentee voter; effective date.

Similar Bills

TX SB1247

Relating to consolidating certain nonresident hunting licenses.

MO SB971

Establishes provisions relating to student transfers to nonresident districts

CA AB1555

Community colleges: exemption from nonresident tuition fee: College of the Siskiyous.

IA SF179

A bill for an act relating to special deer hunting licenses available to nonresident family members.

MO SB266

Creates and modifies provisions relating to responsibilities of publicly funded elementary and secondary educational entities

ND HB1237

Nonresident hunting licenses.

ND HB1237

A BILL for an Act to create and enact a new section to chapter 20.1-03 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to nonresident upland and small game licenses; and to amend and reenact section 20.1-03-07 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to nonresident hunting licenses.