Filling vacancies in elective state offices in the executive branch.
Impact
If enacted, AB476 would significantly alter the dynamics of filling vacancies in key executive roles within Wisconsin’s government. The bill introduces a process where vacancies must be filled by nomination of the governor and subsequent appointment with the advice and consent of the state senate in certain circumstances. This legislative change is expected to enhance checks and balances in the appointment process, ensuring that such significant roles are filled through a more democratic method rather than unilateral decisions by the governor.
Summary
Assembly Bill 476 aims to amend the current procedures regarding how vacancies in elective state offices in the executive branch are filled. Currently, when a vacancy occurs in the offices of the secretary of state, treasurer, attorney general, or state superintendent of public instruction, the governor has the authority to make an appointment without requiring senate confirmation. Under AB476, this practice is set to change, mandating that vacancies must be filled through special elections, thus eliminating the governor's ability to make provisional appointments without the senate's blessing.
Contention
There could be notable points of contention surrounding AB476, particularly concerning the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches of government. Proponents argue that filling vacancies through direct elections ensures greater accountability to the public and reduces one-party control over these important offices. Opponents may contend that the requirement for senate confirmation could lead to politicization of the appointment process and could slow down the filling of urgent vacancies, which could hamper governance during critical times.
Considerations
Moreover, the bill specifically addresses scenarios where vacancies arise close to scheduled elections, stipulating that such vacancies must be filled by the governor's nomination followed by senate confirmation for the remainder of the unexpired term. This stipulation attempts to balance the need for timely appointments with the necessity of maintaining legislative oversight. Discussions surrounding this bill will likely focus on the implications for governance and the efficiency of executive branch operations.