Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

Wisconsin Senate Bill SB1160

Introduced
3/19/26  
Refer
3/19/26  

Caption

An Act to create 165.502 of the statutes; Relating to: attorney general enforcement authority for civil rights violations and providing a penalty. (FE)

Impact

The bill's enactment would modify existing state laws related to civil rights enforcement. By empowering the attorney general, this legislation could lead to a more robust enforcement mechanism that significantly impacts how civil rights violations are addressed throughout the state. The potential for increased penalties may serve as a deterrent against discriminatory practices and violations, contributing to better compliance with civil rights laws.

Summary

SB1160 aims to enhance the enforcement of civil rights by granting the attorney general expanded authority to pursue actions against violations. This includes the ability to impose penalties on individuals or entities found in violation of civil rights laws. The initiative represents a concerted effort to ensure that violations are addressed promptly and with appropriate consequences, reinforcing the state's commitment to civil rights protection.

Contention

There may be notable points of contention regarding the scope of the attorney general's authority under SB1160. Critics could argue that expanding this power might lead to excessive governmental oversight and that it may unintentionally infringe upon individual rights. Additionally, concerns surrounding the adequacy of remedies and the potential for disparate impacts on various communities may arise during discussions in legislative sessions.

Companion Bills

WI AB1208

Crossfiled An Act to create 165.502 of the statutes; Relating to: attorney general enforcement authority for civil rights violations and providing a penalty. (FE)

Previously Filed As

WI AB1208

Attorney general enforcement authority for civil rights violations and providing a penalty. (FE)

WI HB2205

Prohibiting lobbying for or by foreign adversaries; authorizing the attorney general to file civil lawsuits; providing for civil penalties for violations thereof.

WI SB2651

Campaign finance laws; SOS to report to the Attorney General regarding judicial enforcement for violations of.

WI HB1253

The authority of the attorney general to impose fines for gaming violations.

WI SB38

Providing for liability for false claims, for adoption of congressional intent of the Federal False Claims Act, for damages, costs and civil penalties, for powers of Attorney General, for qui tam actions and for civil investigative demands.

WI HB2051

Providing for liability for false claims, for adoption of congressional intent of the Federal False Claims Act, for damages, costs and civil penalties, for powers of Attorney General, for qui tam actions and for civil investigative demands.

WI HF2966

Statewide landlord database created, civil penalty for failure to register with statewide landlord database created, civil remedies provided, and attorney general enforcement provided.

WI HB415

Law enforcement, Police Abuse Registry and Law Enforcement Injury Fund created, penalties provided for and civil actions authorized

WI SB9

Alabama Athletic Commission, Attorney General authorized to bring action for violations, certain violations constitute Class C felony

WI A08944

Prohibits state and federal law enforcement acting within New York from covering their faces or otherwise concealing their identity, except in limited circumstances; grants the attorney general authority to enforce civil penalties.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.