Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

Wisconsin Senate Bill SB1180

Introduced
3/19/26  
Refer
3/19/26  

Caption

An Act to renumber and amend 8.15 (4) (a) and 8.40 (2); to amend 8.04, 8.10 (1), 8.10 (2) (b), 8.10 (4) (b), 8.15 (2), 8.15 (5) (a), 8.20 (2) (a) and 8.20 (5); to create 8.15 (4) (a) 1. and 8.40 (2) (a) 1. of the statutes; Relating to: circulating or signing nomination papers and certain petitions.

Impact

If passed, SB1180 would impact existing state laws related to the election process, particularly those governing the collection of signatures for nomination papers and petitions. This might include changes to the number of required signatures, the timeframe for collecting them, and the verification processes involved. Such modifications are expected to reduce bureaucratic obstacles, making it more feasible for a broader range of candidates to enter elections, which could encourage more diverse political competition.

Summary

SB1180 seeks to modify the regulations surrounding the circulation and signing of nomination papers and certain petitions in the state. By clarifying the procedures involved, the bill aims to streamline the process for candidates seeking to qualify for election. Proponents argue that the legislation is designed to enhance voter engagement by making it easier for citizens to participate in the electoral process, thereby increasing representation and responsiveness in government.

Contention

Notably, discussions surrounding SB1180 have highlighted concerns about the potential implications of easing regulations. Critics fear that while the intent may be to simplify access, it could also lead to situations where the integrity of the nomination process is compromised. There is apprehension among some legislators and advocacy groups that loosening signature requirements may open the door for fraudulent practices, potentially undermining voter confidence in the electoral outcomes.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WI AB808

Campaign statements and registrations: filing online or electronically.

WI AB100

An act to amend the Budget Act of 2023 (Chapters 12, 38, and 189 of the Statutes of 2023) by amending Items 5227-122-0001 and 7502-495 of Section 2.

WI HB4749

Courts: other; Antrim County trial court system; establish. Amends secs. 810a, 8151 & 8176 of 1961 PA 236 (MCL 600.810a et seq.) & adds sec. 8165.

WI SB0429

Courts: other; Antrim County trial court system; establish. Amends secs. 810a, 8151 & 8176 of 1961 PA 236 (MCL 600.810a et seq.) & adds sec. 8165.

WI HB434

Exempt military driver's license applicants from driver's ed

WI HB964

An Act to amend and reenact §§ 8.01-338, 24.2-101, 24.2-404, 24.2-409, 24.2-409.1, 24.2-410, 24.2-418, 24.2-427, 53.1-5, 53.1-10, 64.2-2000, and 64.2-2009 of the Code of Virginia; to amend the Code of Virginia by adding sections numbered 24.2-400.1, 24.2-409.2, and 24.2-418.2; and to repeal Chapter 12.1 (§§ 53.1-231.1 and 53.1-231.2) of Title 53.1 of the Code of Virginia, relating to voter registration; restoration of political rights upon release from incarceration; certain adjudications.

WI SB121

An act relating to the Budget Act of 2025.

WI AB112

An act to amend the Budget Act of 2022 (Chapters 43, 45, and 249 of the Statutes of 2022) by amending Items 5227-118-0001 and 6100-001-0001 of Section 2.00 of, and amending Sections 19.56 and 39.10 of, that act, to amend the Budget Act of 2023 (Chapters 12, 38, and 189 of the Statutes of 2023) by amending Item 5227-118-0001 of Section 2.00 of, and amending Sections 19.561 and 39.10 of, that act, to amend the Budget Act of 2024 (Chapters 22, 35, and 994 of the Statutes of 2024) by amending Item 5227-118-0001 of Section 2.00 of, and amending Section 39.10 of, that act, and to amend the Budget Act of 2025 (Chapters 4 and 5 of the Statutes of 2025) by amending Items 0840-001-6094, 2660-101-0001, 2720-001-0044, 2740-004-0044, 3480-492, 3600-001-0001, 4260-101-0001, 4300-001-0890, 5225-001-0001, 5225-002-0001, 5225-492, 5225-493, 6100-001-0001, 6100-194-0001 and 6100-196-0001 of, adding Items 2240-494, 3480-491, 3560-001-6093 and 5225-496 to, and repealing Items 3560-101-6093 and 5225-494 of, Section 2.00 of, amending Sections 35.50, 39.10, and 99.50 of, and adding Section 11.62 to, that act, relating to the state budget, and making an appropriation therefor, to take effect immediately, budget bill.

WI AB121

An act to amend Sections 1622, 1623, 1630, 8281.

WI HB308

An Act to amend and reenact §§ 4.1-100, 4.1-103, 4.1-103.01, 4.1-204, 4.1-229, 15.2-912.4, 18.2-246.8, 18.2-371.2, 18.2-371.2:1, 18.2-391, 19.2-386.21, 58.1-1021.04:1, 59.1-200, 59.1-293.10, 59.1-293.13, 59.1-293.15 through 59.1-293.18, 59.1-293.20, and 59.1-293.21 of the Code of Virginia; to amend the Code of Virginia by adding in Chapter 2 of Title 4.1 an article numbered 4, consisting of sections numbered 4.1-241 through 4.1-254, by adding in Chapter 3 of Title 4.1 an article numbered 4, consisting of sections numbered 4.1-355 through 4.1-361, and by adding in Chapter 22.2 of Title 19.2 a section numbered 19.2-386.37; and to repeal §§ 58.1-1021.06 through 58.1-1021.09, 59.1-293.11, 59.1-293.12, and 59.1-293.14 of the Code of Virginia, relating to Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority; permitting of retail tobacco product retailers; purchase, possession, and sale of retail tobacco products; penalties; report.

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