Bill
Bill > AB377
WI AB377
WI AB377Establishing 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
07/17/2025
07/17/2025
In Committee
01/16/2026
01/16/2026
Crossed Over
01/15/2026
01/15/2026
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
Potential new amendment
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 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 regarding language use in government operations. The legislation allows state and local government entities to use artificial intelligence or machine-assisted translation tools instead of appointing human interpreters when language assistance is required. It mandates that all governmental oral and written communication must be conducted in English, with exceptions permitted for specific circumstances such as protecting citizen safety, teaching languages, promoting trade, complying with federal laws, or addressing individual case needs. The bill provides eight specific scenarios where government officers and employees can use languages other than English, including protecting individual rights, facilitating census activities, and using proper names or technical terms. Importantly, the bill also explicitly prohibits state agencies and local governmental units from preventing individuals from becoming proficient in any language or restricting language use for nongovernmental purposes. These provisions aim to standardize language use in government while maintaining flexibility for practical and humanitarian considerations, ensuring that language barriers do not impede essential communication or personal language development.
Committee Categories
Business and Industry
Sponsors (9)
Elijah Behnke (R)*,
Robert Brooks (R)*,
Rick Gundrum (R)*,
Rob Kreibich (R)*,
Dave Maxey (R)*,
Dave Murphy (R)*,
Jerry O'Connor (R)*,
André Jacque (R),
Steve Nass (R),
Last Action
Senate Government Operations, Labor and Economic Development Executive Session (10:00:00 3/11/2026 306-South) (on 03/11/2026)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
Loading...
bill summary
Loading...
bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/2025/proposals/reg/asm/bill/ab377 |
| AB377 ROCP for Committee on Government Operations, Labor and Economic Development | https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/2025/related/records/senate/government_operations_labor_and_economic_development/1978012.pdf |
| Analysis - LC Amendment Memo | https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/document/lcamendmentmemos/2025/REG/AB377.pdf |
| Assembly Amendment 2 | https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/document/amends/2025/REG/AB377-AA2.pdf |
| Assembly Amendment 1 | https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/document/amends/2025/REG/AB377-AA1.pdf |
| AB377 ROCP for Committee on Science, Technology, and AI | https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/2025/related/records/assembly/science_technology_and_ai/1949590.pdf |
| Fiscal Note - AB377: Fiscal Estimate From DPI | https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/2025/related/fe/ab377/ab377_dpi.pdf |
| BillText | https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/document/proposaltext/2025/REG/AB377.pdf |
Loading...