Flags flown at state and local government buildings and eliminating a related administrative rule.
Impact
The proposed regulations will require that any flagpole or building owned or occupied by a state agency or local government displays only the specified flags unless otherwise directed by a joint resolution from the legislature or a three-fourths majority vote from a governing body. This would effectively preclude other flags, which may have local or regional significance, from being flown, thus standardizing how flags are displayed across Wisconsin’s governmental landscape.
Summary
Assembly Bill 46 seeks to regulate the display of flags at state and local government buildings in Wisconsin. Specifically, it mandates that only four types of flags may be flown: the U.S. flag, the state flag, the official POW/MIA flag, and the official flags of the U.S. armed forces. This bill is a legislative initiative aimed at establishing uniformity in flag displays across all government-owned properties, including state agencies and local government facilities, such as cities, towns, villages, and counties.
Contention
One notable point of contention surrounding AB46 involves concerns regarding local discretion. While supporters of the bill argue it creates a necessary uniformity in flag representation, opponents may see it as an erosion of local governance and the right of communities to express their values through varied flag displays. Additionally, the repeal of an administrative rule that allowed exceptions by the governor could further heighten frustration among those favoring a more flexible approach to flag regulations in their jurisdictions.
Implementation
The bill delays its implementation for state facilities until January 1, 2027, providing time for state and local governments to adjust to these new requirements. This timeline also opens the door for further discussion among stakeholders about the ramifications of such regulations, particularly on issues of identity and community representation in public spaces.
Judicial review of local governmental decisions related to certain land development, local approval of residential housing development, and amendment of zoning ordinances. (FE)
Judicial review of local governmental decisions related to certain land development, local approval of residential housing development, and amendment of zoning ordinances. (FE)
County and municipal aid; imposing a city sales tax and an additional county sales tax to pay the unfunded actuarial accrued liability of city and county retirement systems; requiring newly hired city and county employees of certain city agencies and counties to be enrolled in the Wisconsin Retirement System; fire and police commissions of first class cities; eliminating the personal property tax; reporting certain crimes and other incidents that occur on school property or school transportation; advisory referenda; local health officers; local public protection services; exceptions to local levy limits; local regulation of certain quarry operations; emergency services; local approval of projects and activities under the Warren Knowles-Gaylord Nelson Stewardship 2000 Program; requiring a referendum; and granting rule-making authority. (FE)
Preference in state and local government contracts and procurement for materials manufactured in the United States and granting rule-making authority. (FE)
County and municipal aid; imposing a city sales tax and an additional county sales tax to pay the unfunded actuarial accrued liability of city and county retirement systems; requiring newly hired city and county employees of certain city agencies and counties to be enrolled in the Wisconsin Retirement System; fire and police commissions of first class cities; eliminating the personal property tax; reporting certain crimes and other incidents that occur on school property or school transportation; advisory referenda; local health officers; local public protection services; exceptions to local levy limits; local regulation of certain quarry operations; emergency services; local approval of projects and activities under the Warren Knowles-Gaylord Nelson Stewardship 2000 Program; requiring a referendum; and granting rule-making authority. (FE)