Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB426

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 9/19/23
• Refer: 9/19/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Eligibility for appointment as a law enforcement or correctional officer.

Impact

The bill's passage could significantly alter the landscape of law enforcement personnel eligibility in Wisconsin. It opens the door to a more diverse pool of applicants, which supporters feel could contribute positively to community relations and reflect the demography of increasingly diverse populations in many cities. However, the bill maintains restrictions against specific non-immigrant visa holders, thus balancing the need for inclusivity with national security and public safety considerations.

Summary

Assembly Bill 426 aims to amend the eligibility criteria for appointment as a law enforcement or correctional officer in the state of Wisconsin. Current laws mandate that only U.S. citizens can be appointed to these positions; however, this bill introduces provisions that would allow noncitizens who are legally present in the United States for at least six consecutive years to be eligible for appointment, barring specific visa holders. This shift in policy is intended to recognize the contributions of long-term residents who may still hold non-citizen status yet are eligible to work in the jurisdiction.

Contention

Despite its intent, AB426 faces potential challenges and contention, particularly regarding public safety and national security concerns. Critics may argue that allowing noncitizens into law enforcement roles undermines the integrity and trust required in law enforcement agencies. There's also concern about the potential backlash from the public and law enforcement community regarding the qualifications and loyalty of noncitizens in critical positions. Stakeholders will likely debate the implications of this bill on local safety and enforcement effectiveness.