Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

Wisconsin Senate Bill SB260

Introduced
5/2/23  
Refer
5/2/23  

Caption

Interception of oral communications by public bodies in public spaces.

Impact

If enacted, SB260 would create a framework that allows for the interception of oral communications under controlled circumstances, thus impacting how public agencies operate and engage with citizens. It stipulates that any such interception must be publicly disclosed, requiring plain view notifications within the areas of interception. The bill aims to balance public safety interests against privacy concerns, allowing governmental entities to utilize interception as a resource while still safeguarding citizens' rights and expectations of privacy.

Summary

Senate Bill 260 aims to establish regulations regarding the interception of oral communications by public bodies within public spaces. The bill modifies existing laws that currently make it a crime for individuals to intentionally intercept oral communications without consent, outlining specific scenarios under which state agencies and local governmental units may conduct such interceptions. Importantly, the bill imposes requirements for authorization that must be met before interception can occur, including the necessity of a two-thirds vote by the governing body of the local governmental unit.

Contention

The proposed bill may face notable contention concerning privacy rights and civil liberties. Opponents may argue that allowing public bodies to intercept communications—even with restrictions—could lead to misuse or abuse of power, potentially infringing on the constitutional rights of citizens. Supporters, however, might contend that such measures are necessary for effective governance and ensure accountability within public agencies, particularly in matters of public safety and law enforcement.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WI AB252

Interception of oral communications by public bodies in public spaces.

WI S2706

Interception Of Wire And Oral Communications

WI H7700

Interception Of Wire And Oral Communications

WI SB107

Evidence - Interception of Oral Communications - Fair Housing Testing

WI SB85

Publication & Use Of Communications

WI HB86

Publication & Use Of Communications

WI HB392

Evidence - Interception of Oral Communications - Fair Housing Testing

WI HB2841

Relating to interception of wire, oral, or electronic communications for law enforcement purposes.

WI SB687

Relating to interception of wire, oral, or electronic communications for law enforcement purposes.

WI SB188

Relating to interception of wire, oral, or electronic communications for law enforcement purposes.

Similar Bills

WI AB252

Interception of oral communications by public bodies in public spaces.

NJ A3964

Requires parties to certain telephone communications to give notice of intention to record communications in order for communications to be lawfully recorded; failure to give notice violates "New Jersey Wiretapping and Electronic Surveillance Control Act."

HI HB242

Relating To Electronic Eavesdropping.

HI HB242

Relating To Electronic Eavesdropping.

NJ S717

Makes it unlawful for private citizen to record a communication unless all parties to the communication have previously consented.

TX SB1223

Relating to requiring the consent of all parties to legally intercept certain communications.

TX HB3169

Relating to requiring the consent of all parties to legally intercept certain communications.

NC S367

Intercept Communications/All Parties Consent