Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

Wisconsin Senate Bill SB445

Introduced
9/29/25  
Refer
9/29/25  
Report Pass
2/2/26  

Caption

Consideration of a certain definition of antisemitism for purposes of laws, ordinances, policies, or criminal penalty enhancers concerning discrimination based on race, religion, color, or national origin.

Impact

The potential impact of SB445 includes reinforcing existing protections against antisemitism and ensuring that responses to such discrimination are consistent across various jurisdictions within the state. By establishing a clear definition, this bill could enhance the ability of entities to take legal action against behaviors or policies that exemplify antisemitism, thereby supporting individuals affected by such actions. Moreover, it reinforces the state's commitment to uphold civil rights, possibly influencing other legislative considerations related to discrimination laws.

Summary

SB445 is a legislation that seeks to define antisemitism for the purpose of guiding laws, ordinances, policies, or criminal penalty enhancers concerning discrimination based on race, religion, color, or national origin. This bill is intended to provide clarity in how instances of antisemitism are recognized and addressed legally, impacting a range of civil rights protections. The introduction of such a definition could be significant in promoting a more informed approach to combating discrimination in various settings.

Contention

While proponents of SB445 argue that it provides necessary protections and clarifications regarding antisemitism, there may be concerns raised regarding the implications of such a definition. Critics might argue that the language of the definition could lead to misuse or overreach, potentially limiting free expression or the ability to address complex issues of discrimination without fear of legal repercussions. Therefore, the definition will need to be carefully crafted to ensure that it upholds civil liberties while effectively combating antisemitism.

Companion Bills

WI AB446

Crossfiled Consideration of a certain definition of antisemitism for purposes of laws, ordinances, policies, or criminal penalty enhancers concerning discrimination based on race, religion, color, or national origin.

Previously Filed As

WI AB446

Consideration of a certain definition of antisemitism for purposes of laws, ordinances, policies, or criminal penalty enhancers concerning discrimination based on race, religion, color, or national origin.

WI HB1124

State government; require certain agencies to consider definition of hinduphobia to apply to laws and regulations prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, or national origin

WI HB2243

State government; antisemitism; definitions; discrimination; effective date.

WI HB2243

State government; antisemitism; definitions; discrimination; effective date.

WI HB135

Housing; discrimination based on hairstyles associated with race, color, or national origin; prohibit

WI HB90

Define antisemitism for certain purposes

WI LB538

Require the State Board of Education to develop a model policy regarding discrimination and antisemitism, require school boards to adopt a policy regarding discrimination and antisemitism, and provide for Title VI coordinators

WI HB1218

Discrimination; anti-Semitism; certain definition; purposes; construing provisions; effective date; emergency.

WI HB1218

Discrimination; anti-Semitism; certain definition; purposes; construing provisions; effective date; emergency.

WI HB1852

Definitions and general provisions; discrimination; definitions; antisemitism; effective date.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.