Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB899

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/4/24
• Refer: 1/4/24
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Dissolving the Elections Commission, requiring the secretary of state to administer elections, and granting rule-making authority. (FE)

Impact

The passage of AB899 will significantly alter the framework of election administration in Wisconsin. By consolidating authority under the secretary of state, the bill seeks to create a more homogeneous approach to election management. Supporters argue that this change will enhance accountability and efficiency, eliminating the redundancy of having an independent commission. However, critics express concern that the move undermines the checks and balances that the commission provided and may lead to increased political influence over election processes. The transition will also involve the reassignment of employees from the commission to the secretary's office, raising potential questions about job security and morale among election officials.

Summary

Assembly Bill 899 proposes the dissolution of the Elections Commission in Wisconsin, transferring its responsibilities to the office of the secretary of state. This legislation aims to streamline the administration of elections, centralizing authority and responsibilities that were previously shared between the commission and the secretary. The bill outlines the necessary transition processes and emphasizes the secretary's role in overseeing election administration effectively, set to take effect on January 4, 2027. The secretary will assume all functions, including the maintenance of voter registration lists, managing election protocols, and ensuring compliance with election laws.

Contention

The discussion surrounding AB899 reflects a division in political opinion regarding the best governance practices for election administration. Proponents contend that the commission's dissolution will facilitate quicker decision-making and consistency in election practices, while detractors fear that concentrating power with the secretary could lead to partisan manipulation of election outcomes. Notably, the bill mandates that the secretary acts under the guidance of legislative committees on matters related to election administration, providing a layer of oversight but also raising questions about legislative interference in administrative functions. This balance of power is a central point of contention in the ongoing debate over the bill.