Wisconsin Senate Bill SB548

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

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

Caption

Automatic voter registration, deceptive election practices, voter intimidation and suppression, voter rights, polling place posting and language requirements, election manual requirements, granting rule-making authority, and providing a penalty. (FE)

Impact

The bill introduces enhanced penalties for voter intimidation and misinformation, classifying violations as misdemeanors or felonies, with fines extending up to $100,000 for severe infractions. This creates a robust framework aimed at preserving the integrity of the voting process. Moreover, it presents a 'voter bill of rights' that will be posted at polling places, clearly uplifting the rights of electors to ensure they can participate in a free and fair electoral process.

Summary

Senate Bill 548 is aimed at reforming various aspects of election laws in Wisconsin, primarily focusing on automatic voter registration, enhancing voter protections, and combatting deceptive election practices. A key provision of the bill mandates the Elections Commission to facilitate registration for all eligible voters by July 2025, utilizing information from the Department of Transportation, while ensuring the confidentiality of personal data. It emphasizes continuous voter registration and gives electors the right to request removal from voter lists, as well as being notified if their status changes.

Contention

Despite its ambitious goals, Senate Bill 548 has drawn criticism from some quarters, particularly regarding the potential overreach of state authorities into local election processes. Opponents argue that while the intent may be to protect voters, the bill could inadvertently create more bureaucratic hurdles and undermine local election officials' discretion. Additionally, concerns have been raised about how automated registration might affect voters who prefer more control over their personal information and registration status.