Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB494

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 10/16/23
• Refer: 10/16/23
• Report Pass: 11/6/23
• Refer: 11/6/23
• Engrossed: 11/9/23
• Refer: 11/13/23
• Enrolled: 11/15/23
• Vetoed: 12/6/23
• Refer: 1/18/24
• Failed: 5/15/24

Caption

Status as an indefinitely confined voter for purposes of automatically receiving absentee ballots and providing a penalty. (FE)

Impact

The bill modifies existing statutes by introducing stricter requirements for proving indefinitely confined status. Voters must now submit proof of identification with their application unless they provide specific identifying information that can be independently verified by the Elections Commission. This change is significant as it strengthens the identification requirements placed upon voters, aligning with broader conversations on election integrity and access.

Summary

Assembly Bill 494 aims to define and regulate the status of voters who are 'indefinitely confined', providing them automatic access to absentee ballots for elections. A voter may claim this status if they are unable to travel independently due to age, physical illness, or disability expected to last longer than one year. The bill establishes a separate application process for indefinitely confined status, distinct from other absentee ballot applications, to streamline the process for eligible voters and ensure proper identification verification.

Contention

Notably, the bill specifies that outbreaks or epidemics of communicable diseases do not qualify voters for indefinitely confined status, which may draw criticism from public health advocates. Additionally, the bill imposes penalties for providing false information in the application process, with fines of up to $1,000 or potential imprisonment. This could deter some individuals from applying for the status, raising concerns about voter suppression among those most vulnerable.

Additional_notes

Overall, Assembly Bill 494 seeks to clarify the voter experience regarding absentee balloting, especially for those facing significant health challenges, while also addressing concerns regarding the authenticity of applications. The balancing act between accessibility and verification continues to be a focal point in discussions surrounding electoral reforms.