Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB314

Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/6/25
• Refer: 6/6/25

Caption

Adopting gender-neutral terminology and incorporating gender-neutral marriage and parentage rights. (FE)

Impact

The bill significantly impacts areas of law related to marriage and parentage. By changing all references of 'husband' and 'wife' to 'spouse,' it establishes a uniform standard applicable to all married individuals, regardless of gender. This change ensures equal treatment under the law for same-sex couples regarding spousal rights, child custody, and inheritance matters. Additionally, it facilitates same-sex couples' ability to jointly adopt children and expands parental rights to include individuals who may conceive through artificial insemination without requiring specific medical supervision.

Summary

Assembly Bill 314 aims to amend existing statutes in Wisconsin to adopt gender-neutral terminology and recognize same-sex marriage in accordance with the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling in Obergefell v. Hodges. The bill explicitly states that marriage is permitted between persons of the same sex, ensuring that same-sex couples enjoy the same legal rights and responsibilities as different-sex couples in areas such as tax, inheritance, and family law. This legislative move is intended to harmonize Wisconsin's laws with constitutional principles established by the high court regarding marriage equality.

Contention

While the bill's intent is to promote equality and inclusiveness in marriage and family law, it may face opposition from groups that advocate traditional definitions of marriage. However, proponents argue that the legislation will provide clarity in family law and foster a more inclusive society by recognizing the dynamics of modern families. The shifting legal landscape may result in debates surrounding religious freedom and the implications of broadening legal definitions of family and marriage.