MADISON-After a contentious May 7th hearing, the Assembly Committee on Judiciary dropped Assembly Bill 88 from consideration, removing it from the Executive Hearing agenda. Assembly Bill 88 would create a new criminal and civil penalty for “rioting,” but was widely criticized both for its substance as well as its technical flaws. Many concerned citizens testified against the bill late into the evening.
In response, Judiciary Committee member Andrew Hysell (D-48) released the following statement:
“In the public hearing, I criticized the bill for violating Article IV of the Wisconsin Constitution by restricting future legislatures from passing certain laws. I also noted that Assembly Bill 88 appeared to be drafted in conformance with Ohio state statutes, not Wisconsin law. Finally, in creating a new civil cause of action for rioting, the bill actually weakens existing law for the very people it was supposed to help.
“I thank Chairman Tusler for choosing to not bring AB 88 before the committee tomorrow. The serious flaws present in the legislation warrant this action.
“I also want to thank the citizens that waited long hours to testify at the May 7th hearing, including Representative Ryan Clancy (D-19).”
