Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

Wisconsin Senate Bill SB1166

Introduced
3/19/26  
Refer
3/19/26  

Caption

An Act to renumber 66.0511 (1) (a); to create 66.0511 (1) (ac), 66.0511 (1) (aj) and 66.0511 (5) of the statutes; Relating to: use of autonomous devices equipped with weapons by law enforcement agencies.

Impact

If enacted, SB1166 will amend the Wisconsin statutes to include clear restrictions regarding the deployment of autonomous weapons in law enforcement. The bill creates specific definitions for 'autonomous device' and 'dangerous weapon' to ensure clarity in enforcement. Proponents of the bill argue that banning these devices is necessary to maintain control over law enforcement practices and prevent the potential misuse of technology that could harm citizens. By prohibiting these devices, the bill could prevent scenarios of autonomous lethal force being utilized without adequate oversight.

Summary

Senate Bill 1166 aims to address the use of autonomous devices equipped with dangerous weapons by law enforcement agencies in Wisconsin. The bill explicitly prohibits law enforcement from utilizing such autonomous devices, which are defined as devices capable of operating without active human control. This legislative action emerges from growing concerns about the implications of deploying automated technology in policing, especially technologies that could potentially endanger public safety.

Contention

The introduction of SB1166 has raised various points of contention among lawmakers and the public. Supporters believe that the bill is a proactive measure to safeguard civil liberties and public safety, fearing that unregulated autonomous devices could lead to incidents of harm without accountability. Detractors, however, might argue against the necessity of such regulations, advocating for the potential benefits of integrating innovative technology in law enforcement practices, such as improving efficiency or enhancing security operations.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WI SB0333

Law enforcement: other; use of force policies; require law enforcement agencies to create. Creates new act.

WI HB1441

An Act to amend the Code of Virginia by adding a section numbered 15.2-1726.1, relating to law-enforcement agencies; agreements with federal authority for immigration enforcement; requirements.

WI SB0335

Law enforcement: training; duty to intervene policy; require law enforcement agencies to adopt. Creates new act. TIE BAR WITH: SB 341'25

WI HB1438

A BILL to amend the Code of Virginia by adding in Chapter 17 of Title 15.2 an article numbered 2.1, consisting of sections numbered 15.2-1730.2 through 15.2-1730.5, relating to agencies of the Commonwealth; law-enforcement agencies; employees and officers; agreements with federal authority for immigration enforcement; prohibitions and limitations.

WI H0828

An act relating to banning the transfer of military-grade weapons to State, county, and local law enforcement agencies

WI SB297

Photo speed monitoring devices; law-enforcement agencies to report to VSP number of summonses, etc.

WI HB702

An Act to amend and reenact § 15.2-915.5 of the Code of Virginia and to amend the Code of Virginia by adding a section numbered 15.2-915.6, relating to local law-enforcement agencies; firearm give-back or sell-back programs.

WI LD1971

An Act to Protect Workers in This State by Clarifying the Relationship of State and Local Law Enforcement Agencies with Federal Immigration Authorities

WI HB77

An Act to amend and reenact § 46.2-882.1 of the Code of Virginia and to amend the Code of Virginia by adding a section numbered 46.2-102.1, relating to enforcement of federal traffic infractions by state and local law-enforcement officers; photo speed monitoring devices; Planning District 8.

WI HF4830

State and local units of government and law enforcement agencies prohibited from acquiring military-grade weapons from the Pentagon's 1033 program.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.