Bill > SB212

This bill modifies Wisconsin's referendum question requirements by adding two key provisions to existing election law. First, the bill mandates that referendum questions, including those for constitutional amendments, must be written in "plain language," which means using clear, straightforward terminology that is easily understood by the average voter. Second, for constitutional amendments specifically, the referendum question must now clearly state whether any part of the proposed amendment is already contained in existing state statutes as of the date the joint resolution was passed. These changes aim to improve voter comprehension by ensuring that referendum questions are more transparent and easier to understand. Currently, referendum questions must already be concise and cannot be worded in a way that requires a negative vote to approve a proposition or a positive vote to disapprove a proposition. The new requirements are designed to make the voting process more accessible and help voters make more informed decisions about proposed changes to the state constitution or other measures.

Government Affairs

https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/2025/proposals/reg/sen/bill/sb212