Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB1157

Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/13/26
• Refer: 3/13/26
• Failed: 3/23/26

Caption

An Act to amend 118.019 (2d), 118.13 (1), 118.13 (2) (a), 118.13 (3) (a) 3., 118.13 (3) (b) 1. and 2., 118.13 (4), 118.20 (1) and 118.40 (4) (b) 2.; to create 118.13 (1m) of the statutes; Relating to: pupil discrimination and private schools participating in a parental choice program or the Special Needs Scholarship Program, discrimination based on gender identity or gender expression, and providing a penalty.

Impact

Should AB1157 be enacted, it would significantly impact state laws concerning educational institutions that receive state funds. The bill would modify existing regulations related to discrimination in education, making it clear that private institutions involved in government-funded programs cannot discriminate against pupils based on their gender identity or expression. This could lead to shifts in the operational policies of such private schools, necessitating training and adjustments to uphold the nondiscrimination criteria outlined in the legislation.

Summary

AB1157 addresses discrimination within the context of pupil services in private schools that participate in state programs such as the parental choice program or the Special Needs Scholarship Program. Specifically, the bill seeks to prohibit discrimination based on gender identity or gender expression, establishing measures for accountability and penalties for non-compliance. The overarching aim of the bill is to protect students' rights within educational environments that receive public funding and to foster inclusivity in academic settings.

Contention

Discussion surrounding AB1157 has highlighted notable points of contention. Proponents argue that the law is crucial for ensuring equality and advancing the rights of marginalized communities in education. They believe it is essential for fostering a safe educational climate for all students. On the other hand, opponents raise concerns regarding the implications for religious or private institutions that may hold beliefs contrary to the provisions outlined in the bill. Critics warn that the legislation may infringe upon the rights of these institutions to operate according to their beliefs and could lead to legal conflicts regarding the interpretation of penalization under the law.