Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB1116

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/23/24
• Refer: 2/23/24
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Payments to individuals holding over in executive positions.

Impact

If enacted, AB1116 would modify existing laws related to the roles and remuneration of appointed public officials in Wisconsin. It specifically targets scenarios where incumbents do not create a vacancy in their position, allowing them to continue their roles despite their terms having expired. The bill emphasizes financial consequences for those who remain in office under these circumstances, altering their compensation rights. By enforcing a hold on payment, the legislation aims to ensure accountability and adherence to term limits.

Summary

Assembly Bill 1116 seeks to introduce new regulations regarding the salary and payments made to individuals holding over in executive public offices. Specifically, it creates a statute that mandates that any payments to public officials who continue to serve in their capacity after the expiration of their term must be withheld 90 days after the term has concluded. This rule aims to address the situation where individuals remain in their positions by appointment without an official vacancy, following a ruling by the Wisconsin Supreme Court.

Contention

The provisions in AB1116 may foster significant discussion regarding executive authority and the implications of holdover appointments. Proponents argue that it establishes necessary checks and balances to prevent individuals from barring successors unduly. However, opponents may contend that it could obstruct continuity in public service roles, especially in critical positions requiring a stable leadership presence. The implications of this legislation could generate differing perspectives on the balance between executive control and accountability.