Wisconsin Assembly Bill AJR36

Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/2/25
• Refer: 5/2/25

Caption

The right of the people to a clean, safe, and healthy natural environment and to its preservation (first consideration).

Impact

If passed, AJR36 would significantly reshape state laws regarding environmental protection by embedding these rights into the state constitution. This change mandates that any legislative actions or restrictions regarding environmental policies will undergo strict scrutiny during judicial review. The commitment to uphold these environmental rights could strengthen existing laws and regulations, thereby facilitating more robust protections for natural resources and ecosystems.

Summary

AJR36 proposes a constitutional amendment affirming the people's right to a clean, safe, and healthy natural environment. This includes access to clean air, clean water, healthy soils, self-sustaining ecosystems, and a stable climate. The bill emphasizes that these rights shall not be infringed and must be equally protected for all communities across the state. Furthermore, it places a responsibility on the state to act as a trustee, ensuring the preservation of Wisconsin’s natural resources for the benefit of present and future generations.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding AJR36 include debates over the implications of defining environmental rights in the constitution. Proponents argue that this amendment is a necessary step to safeguard ecological integrity and ensure that all communities have access to a healthy environment. In contrast, opponents may raise concerns about the feasibility of enforcement and the potential for increased litigation as individuals or groups could challenge laws and actions perceived as infringing upon these newly defined rights.