Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB441

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 9/28/23
• Refer: 9/28/23
• Report Pass: 11/6/23
• Refer: 11/6/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Timeline for sending or transmitting presidential preference primary absentee ballots. (FE)

Impact

If enacted, AB441 will primarily affect the operational procedures of municipal clerks in Wisconsin. They will be required to adhere to a modified timeline for absentee ballot distribution specifically for the presidential preference primary. While this change simplifies the process for certain voters, the law retains the more extended timeline for military and overseas voters, which could create a sense of inconsistency in how different groups of voters receive their ballots. This distinction may have implications for voter turnout and participation rates among varying demographics, particularly those relying on absentee voting.

Summary

Assembly Bill 441 is introduced to amend the statutes regarding the timeline for sending or transmitting absentee ballots for the presidential preference primary in Wisconsin. The current law mandates that municipal clerks send absentee ballots to all electors requesting them, including military and overseas voters, no later than 47 days before each partisan primary and general election. However, for non-partisan or other primaries, ballots must be sent no later than 21 days before the election. AB441 aims to streamline that process for the presidential preference primary by setting a 21-day deadline for sending absentee ballots to non-military and overseas voters, aligning them with the timeline already in place for other elections.

Contention

The discussion around AB441 is likely to bring about various points of contention regarding election accessibility and the administrative burden placed on municipal clerks. Supporters may argue that this amendment will improve the absentee voting experience for primary elections by providing ballots earlier. However, opponents might voice concerns over whether this change sufficiently addresses the specific needs of military and overseas voters, suggesting that the different timelines could lead to confusion or disparities in voting rights. Thus, this bill could ignite broader discussions on how best to facilitate a fair and equitable voting process.