Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB586

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 10/31/23
• Refer: 10/31/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Eliminating the advisory referenda restrictions under 2023 Wisconsin Act 12.

Impact

The passage of AB586 would significantly impact how local governments can interact with their constituents in the decision-making process. It opens avenues for counties and municipalities to gauge public opinion on a wider range of topics through advisory referenda. This move is expected to promote democratic engagement at the local level, allowing voters to express their views on issues that directly affect them, rather than being limited to select topics defined by state law.

Summary

Assembly Bill 586, introduced during the 2023-2024 legislative session, seeks to eliminate restrictions on advisory referenda that were established under 2023 Wisconsin Act 12. This bill aims to restore the ability of counties and municipalities in Wisconsin to conduct advisory referenda for any purpose, a power they previously held before the restrictions were enacted. By repealing specific provisions of the law, the bill intends to enhance local governance by empowering residents to have a say on various issues that concern their communities.

Contention

Notably, there may be points of contention surrounding AB586. Critics of the previous referenda restrictions argued that limiting advisory referenda undermined local democracy and stifled community voices. Supporters of the bill are likely to present it as a restoration of rights that enables more direct stakeholder involvement in local governance. However, there might also be concerns from those who fear that increased referenda could lead to confusion or conflict on governance issues, as voters may have differing opinions on various matters.