Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB70

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/27/23
• Refer: 2/27/23
• Report Pass: 3/13/23
• Refer: 3/13/23
• Engrossed: 3/22/23
• Refer: 3/23/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Participation in a riot and providing a penalty.

Impact

By defining rioting in terms of public disturbances involving violence and clear threats of harm, AB70 aligns with state interests in maintaining public order and safety. This bill is expected to serve as a deterrent against organized violence in public safety incidents. The legislative intent is aimed at addressing concerns regarding escalating incidents at protests or public gatherings where violence may occur.

Summary

Assembly Bill 70 establishes new legal definitions and penalties related to participation in riots within Wisconsin. It classifies urging, promoting, organizing, or encouraging a riot as a Class I felony. Furthermore, any individual who intentionally engages in acts of violence during a riot is subject to a Class H felony. The bill specifically articulates what constitutes a 'riot' and delineates the responsibilities of individuals during such public disturbances.

Contention

Critics of the bill may argue that the broad definitions could potentially criminalize legitimate forms of protest and expression. The language of the bill might raise concerns about the potential chilling effect on individual rights to assembly and free speech. Opponents worry that such penalties could disproportionately affect groups aiming to advocate for social justice or other causes, potentially labeling them as instigators or participants in riots for actions merely aimed at peaceful assembly.