Wisconsin Senate Bill SB126

Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/14/25
• Refer: 3/14/25
• Report Pass: 4/16/25
• Engrossed: 4/22/25

Caption

The effective date of certain provisions contained in 2023 Wisconsin Act 126.

Impact

The provisions of 2023 Wisconsin Act 126 included various initiatives to enhance election integrity. These initiatives consist of protecting the personally identifiable information of election officials from public access, establishing significant penalties for any harm caused to election officials while performing their duties, and providing whistleblower protections for those who report election fraud or irregularities. The intent of these measures is to secure the electoral process against potential threats and to encourage transparency and accountability within election administration.

Summary

Senate Bill 126 modifies the effective date for certain provisions in the previously enacted 2023 Wisconsin Act 126. Primarily, it aims to adjust the timeline for when the requirement for campaign finance filings to be submitted to the Ethics Commission through the Campaign Finance Information System (CFIS) will take effect. While Act 126 was set to begin implementation on July 1, 2025, the bill seeks to extend this deadline to December 1, 2027, allowing for a more gradual introduction of the new reporting requirements.

Contention

While many support the measures aimed at safeguarding election officials and enhancing transparency, there remains some contention around the provision that prohibits public access to election officials’ personally identifiable information. Critics argue that limiting access could hinder transparency in the electoral process, potentially leading to mistrust among the electorate. Furthermore, the delay in implementing campaign finance requirements raises questions about the urgency and effectiveness of the proposed reforms to campaign financial oversight.