Madison – Two common-sense election reforms are getting the approval of the Wisconsin State Senate. On Tuesday, two bills authored by Senator Alberta Darling will help clerks better operate elections.
“These bills won’t prevent anyone from voting who is legally eligible,” Darling said, “They will improve the way we handle elections and help make sure everyone in the state is operating under the same rules.”
Senate Bill 843, authored by Senator Darling and Representative Dan Knodl, originated with a concern raised by the Mequon City Clerk. During a recent local election, someone tried to register to vote. When they were asked if they were a citizen, they said “no,” and were turned away. The clerk is concerned that a less honest person would have received a ballot. Senate Bill 843 requires non-resident driver’s licenses to indicate “Not Valid for Voting Purposes.” It also will confirm the citizenship of people on the voter registration list.
The Senate also approved Senate Bill 943 which helps make sure major changes in election law are approved by the Legislature. During the 2020 election, the Wisconsin Elections Commission (WEC) made several changes to the way the state handles elections without approval from the Legislature. Senate Bill 943 will improve the legislative review process of WEC guidance.
“This is a simple change that will improve how we handle elections,” Darling said, “Major changes need to be approved by the elected members of the Legislature.”
Senator Darling represents portions of Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Washington, and Waukesha Counties.
