Bill Restricting Ballot Drop Boxes Passes in Wisconsin
MADISON, WI – In a move hailed by conservatives as a victory for election integrity, the Wisconsin State Legislature has passed a bill that significantly restricts the use of ballot drop boxes across the state. The bill, which passed both the Assembly and Senate after considerable debate, seeks to address concerns about potential voter fraud and ensures ballots are securely handled.
Key Provisions of the Legislation
The bill stipulates that ballot drop boxes can only be located inside election clerk offices and must be staffed during business hours. This measure eliminates the use of unstaffed, outdoor drop boxes, which were widely used during the 2020 election due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The new law also mandates stricter chain-of-custody protocols for ballots delivered via drop boxes.
- Drop boxes only allowed inside election clerk offices.
- Drop boxes must be staffed during business hours.
- Eliminates unstaffed outdoor drop boxes.
- Mandates stricter chain-of-custody protocols.
Supporters Emphasize Election Integrity
Republican lawmakers have championed the bill as a necessary step to safeguard Wisconsin's elections. “This legislation is about ensuring that every legal vote is counted accurately and that our elections are free from fraud or the appearance of fraud,” stated State Senator Robert Cowles, a key proponent of the bill. “We have a responsibility to maintain the integrity of our electoral process.”
Opposition Voices Concerns About Voter Access
Democrats and voting rights advocates have criticized the bill, arguing that it will disproportionately affect elderly, disabled, and minority voters who may rely on drop boxes for convenient ballot access. Critics contend that the restrictions will suppress voter turnout and make it more difficult for eligible citizens to exercise their right to vote. Opponents like Representative Mark Pocan have characterized the bill as "a blatant attempt to disenfranchise voters."
Legal Challenges Anticipated
Legal challenges to the new law are widely expected. Voting rights groups have already indicated their intention to file lawsuits, arguing that the restrictions violate the Voting Rights Act and the U.S. Constitution. The outcome of these legal battles will likely determine the long-term impact of the bill on Wisconsin's elections.
Next Steps
The bill now heads to Governor Tony Evers for consideration. The Governor has previously vetoed similar measures and is expected to do so again. If vetoed, the legislature would need a two-thirds majority in both chambers to override the veto, a challenging prospect given the current political landscape.