Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB1037

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/1/24
• Refer: 2/1/24
• Report Pass: 3/13/24
• Refer: 3/13/24
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Witness address requirements on absentee ballot certificates, curing defects on absentee ballot certificates, and providing a penalty.

Impact

The bill's impact on state laws would essentially tighten the rules governing absentee voting procedures. It seeks to eliminate ambiguities related to witness verification by imposing clearer requirements on what must be included. Failure to include sufficient witness information would result in absentee ballots being disqualified, which may lead to increased scrutiny and potential disenfranchisement of voters who do not adhere to the new specifics. This change aims to promote more secure and fair election practices within the state.

Summary

Assembly Bill 1037 addresses the regulations surrounding absentee ballot submissions in Wisconsin. The proposed legislation amends existing statutes to include stricter requirements for witness information on absentee ballots. Under the bill, to have an absentee ballot counted, the witness certification must now include the witness's printed first and last names, house or apartment number, street name, municipality, state, and zip code. This requirement seeks to enhance the integrity of the voting process by ensuring that all ballots have verifiable witness information and are properly certified.

Contention

A significant point of contention arises from the penalties associated with the bill. AB1037 establishes that individuals other than the elector or their witness may not correct defects in the absentee ballot certificate, making it a misdemeanor to do so. Penalties for violations could reach fines of up to $500 or imprisonment for up to 30 days. Critics argue that such penalties may unfairly punish individuals attempting to assist in the voting process, potentially discouraging help for voters who may be unfamiliar with the complex voting regulations. This aspect could spark debate regarding the balance between securing the voting process and ensuring voter assistance.