Wisconsin Senate Bill SB543

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 10/23/23
• Refer: 10/23/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Eliminating the advisory referenda restrictions under 2023 Wisconsin Act 12.

Impact

If enacted, SB543 would significantly alter the landscape of local governance in Wisconsin by providing counties and municipalities with broader authority to conduct advisory referenda. This could empower local governments to seek guidance from their constituents on a wider array of topics, potentially enhancing democratic participation. By removing the limitations set by the previous law, this bill would enable municipalities to better reflect the preferences and needs of their communities in policy decisions, thus promoting a more inclusive approach to local governance.

Summary

Senate Bill 543 proposes to repeal restrictions placed on advisory referenda as established under the 2023 Wisconsin Act 12. The current law limits counties and municipalities from conducting advisory referenda, allowing them only for specific instances such as revenue sharing agreements or capital expenditures funded by property taxes. SB543 aims to eliminate these restrictions and restore the ability of local governments to hold advisory referenda for any purpose, which they were permitted to do prior to the enactment of 2023 Wisconsin Act 12. This legislative change could reintroduce a greater level of citizen engagement in local governance by allowing communities to gauge public opinion on various issues through referenda.

Contention

The discussion surrounding SB543 may hinge on the balance of power between state and local governments, with concerns raised regarding the appropriateness of allowing advisory referenda for any purpose. Some legislators may argue that the repeal of the advisory referendum restrictions could lead to potential misuse or confusion, particularly if referenda are held on contentious issues that may require significant resources or be divisive in nature. Conversely, supporters of the bill could assert that fostering mechanisms for public feedback on local concerns is essential for ensuring responsive governance. Thus, the debates surrounding SB543 could reflect broader themes of accountability, representation, and community involvement in government decision-making.