Wisconsin Senate Bill SB568

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 10/23/23
• Refer: 10/23/23
• Refer: 3/5/24
• Report Pass: 3/7/24
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Creating a task force on missing and murdered African American women and girls. (FE)

Impact

The creation of the task force signifies a proactive legislative effort to combat violence specifically targeting African American women and girls. By focusing on systemic factors such as socio-economic conditions and institutional practices, the task force aims to foster a more effective response to gender violence. It seeks to generate institutional changes that could enhance victim support systems, policing protocols, and community outreach efforts. This initiative intends not only to reduce incidents of violence but also to address the broader societal structures contributing to these issues.

Summary

Senate Bill 568 establishes a task force aimed at addressing the issue of violence against African American women and girls in Wisconsin. The bill calls for the formation of a diverse committee appointed by the attorney general, encompassing legislators, law enforcement, and representatives from community organizations. This task force is tasked with investigating the systemic causes of violence in this demographic and developing actionable solutions. The body is required to submit a comprehensive report to the legislature by December 15, 2024, which will outline methods for violence prevention and recommend improvements in existing policies and institutions that impact African American women and girls.

Contention

While the establishment of the task force has garnered broad support, it also raises concerns about the allocation of state resources and the effectiveness of such initiatives in the long term. Critics may question whether the task force's recommendations will lead to substantial changes in policies or merely serve as a symbolic gesture. Additionally, ensuring the task force operates effectively and inclusively will be critical to its success in understanding and addressing the unique challenges faced by African American women and girls in Wisconsin.