Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB572

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 10/26/23
• Refer: 10/26/23
• Report Pass: 11/7/23
• Refer: 11/7/23
• Engrossed: 11/9/23
• Refer: 11/13/23
• Enrolled: 2/15/24
• Vetoed: 3/21/24
• Failed: 5/15/24

Caption

Absentee voting in certain residential care facilities and retirement homes and court determinations of incompetency and ineligibility to vote.

Impact

The legislative changes introduced by AB 572 will impact the statutes related to voter registration and absentee voting processes. The bill mandates that upon receiving a court's determination of a voter's incompetency, the elections commission must adjust that voter's status promptly, thus streamlining the notification process to individuals affected. By enhancing the protocols surrounding absentee voting in care facilities, the bill aims to bolster voter participation among residents who may otherwise face barriers to voting due to their circumstances.

Summary

Assembly Bill 572 seeks to amend existing statutes to facilitate absentee voting for individuals residing in certain residential care facilities and retirement homes in Wisconsin. It specifically addresses the processes surrounding the determination of voting eligibility and incompetency, allowing for changes in an elector's status based on court findings. This bill aims to make absentee voting more accessible for vulnerable populations residing in care facilities, ensuring that they are afforded the right to participate in elections while accommodating their unique living situations.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding AB 572 is largely supportive, as it addresses the vital issue of accessibility in the electoral process for those in residential care settings. Advocates for the bill believe that it represents a meaningful step toward inclusivity, recognizing that the elderly and individuals with disabilities have the right to vote and be represented. However, there are concerns from some lawmakers about potential vulnerabilities regarding the determination of incompetency and the associated privacy issues, which have led to discussions about ensuring adequate protections for individuals.

Contention

One potential contention arises from the procedures for determining incompetency as it relates to voting rights. Critics express worries that without stringent oversight, the process could lead to unintended disenfranchisement of individuals who may be capable of understanding the voting process. The balance between protecting vulnerable populations and ensuring their rights to participate in democracy remains a critical talking point. As the bill progresses, it is likely that these concerns will spark continued debate among legislators and advocacy groups.