Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB738

Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/3/25
• Refer: 12/3/25
• Failed: 3/23/26

Caption

An Act to renumber and amend 165.85 (3) (cm); to amend 165.85 (3m) (c), 165.85 (4) (c) 7. and 175.44 (2) (b) (intro.); to create 165.85 (3m) (am) 1m. and 165.85 (4m) of the statutes; Relating to: decertification of law enforcement, jail, or juvenile detention officers and tactical emergency medical services professionals and the use of force by law enforcement officers. (FE)

Impact

The introduction of AB738 is poised to significantly impact state laws governing law enforcement and public safety. By codifying the decertification process, the bill aims to provide a more structured approach to holding law enforcement officials accountable for their actions. This could lead to a decrease in incidents of misconduct and better protection of civilian rights. Furthermore, it may prompt law enforcement agencies to adopt more stringent training and evaluation protocols to ensure compliance with the new standards set by this bill.

Summary

AB738 addresses the decertification process of law enforcement, jail, and juvenile detention officers, as well as tactical emergency medical services professionals. This bill seeks to establish clear parameters for the circumstances under which these professionals may be decertified, potentially enhancing accountability within these roles. The implications of this legislation extend to increased scrutiny of use-of-force incidents and may serve to standardize procedures across the state's law enforcement agencies. The bill has generated discussion regarding the standards of conduct required from officers and the systems in place for evaluating their performance and actions.

Contention

While AB738 tends to garner support from advocates of police reform, there remains some contention around certain provisions. Proponents argue that the bill will create a more transparent and accountable law enforcement system, addressing community concerns over police misconduct. Conversely, some law enforcement unions and officials express apprehension that these regulations may add bureaucratic hurdles and create a climate of fear among officers. They argue that the threat of decertification could deter officers from making critical, split-second decisions in high-pressure situations, ultimately compromising public safety.