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WI SB357
WI SB357Establishing English as the official state language, use of artificial intelligence or other machine-assisted translation tools in lieu of appointing English language interpreters, and use of English for governmental oral and written communication and for nongovernmental purposes. (FE)
summary
Introduced
06/27/2025
06/27/2025
In Committee
06/27/2025
06/27/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2025-2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
Currently, Wisconsin has no official language. This bill provides that the official language of this state is English. The bill also allows any state or local governmental entity to provide a person with access to artificial intelligence or other machine-assisted translation tools in lieu of appointing an English language interpreter if the entity is authorized or required by law to appoint an interpreter for the person. Additionally, the bill provides that, unless otherwise specifically required by law, all oral and written communication by all state and local governmental entities must be in the English language, except that such communication may be in another language when appropriate to the circumstances of an individual case, the LRB-3756/1 MPG&KRP:ajk&skw 2025 - 2026 Legislature SENATE BILL 357 implementation of a program in a specific instance, or the discharge of a responsibility in a particular situation. The bill also permits state and local government officers and employees to use a language other than English in oral or written communication whenever necessary for one or more of eight specified purposes. Finally, the bill precludes any state or local governmental entity from prohibiting any person from becoming proficient in any language or restricting the oral or written use of any language for a nongovernmental purpose. For further information see the state and local fiscal estimate, which will be printed as an appendix to this bill.
AI Summary
This bill establishes English as the official state language of Wisconsin and introduces several provisions related to language use in government operations. The bill allows state and local government entities to use artificial intelligence or machine-assisted translation tools instead of appointing human interpreters when legally required to do so. It mandates that all governmental oral and written communication must be conducted in English, with exceptions for specific circumstances such as protecting citizen health and safety, teaching languages, promoting trade, complying with federal laws, or addressing individual case needs. Government officers and employees are permitted to use other languages in eight specific situations, including protecting individual rights, facilitating census activities, and using proper names or technical terms. Importantly, the bill explicitly prohibits state and local governmental entities from preventing individuals from becoming proficient in any language or restricting language use for non-governmental purposes. The legislation also makes consequential amendments to existing statutes regarding interpreter requirements in municipal courts, administrative proceedings, and other legal contexts, adding a reference to the new provision allowing machine translation as an alternative to human interpreters.
Committee Categories
Business and Industry
Sponsors (9)
André Jacque (R)*,
Steve Nass (R)*,
Elijah Behnke (R),
Robert Brooks (R),
Rick Gundrum (R),
Rob Kreibich (R),
Dave Maxey (R),
Dave Murphy (R),
Jerry O'Connor (R),
Last Action
Representative Steffen added as a cosponsor (on 01/15/2026)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/2025/proposals/reg/sen/bill/sb357 |
| Fiscal Note - SB357: Fiscal Estimate From DPI | https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/2025/related/fe/sb357/sb357_dpi.pdf |
| BillText | https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/document/proposaltext/2025/REG/SB357.pdf |
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