Sen. LaTonya Johnson

Maddy summarySB 487 modifies training requirements for concealed carry license applicants and renewers in this state. It expands acceptable proof of training to include out-of-state licenses that document required training, and adds new mandatory training components like suicide prevention, de-escalation techniques, and firearm safety storage practices. The bill requires applicants to submit proof of continuing training (including specific topics like live-fire practice and de-escalation) when renewing licenses. These changes apply to all new applications or renewals submitted on the bill's effective date.

Maddy summarySJR 90 is a symbolic resolution that declares January as Human Trafficking Awareness and Prevention Month in Wisconsin. It aims to increase public awareness about human trafficking, which the resolution describes as modern-day slavery targeting vulnerable groups like youth (with an average victim age of 12-15), people with disabilities, and those disconnected from support networks. The resolution emphasizes statewide recognition of trafficking in all 72 counties and encourages education to identify victims and support prevention efforts. As a non-binding resolution, it does not create new laws or allocate funding but serves as a formal statement of the state's commitment to addressing human trafficking.

Maddy summarySB 156 requires specific first responders - including emergency medical personnel, firefighters, law enforcement officers, correctional officers, and conservation wardens - to complete training on recognizing severe allergic reactions, safely storing and administering epinephrine delivery systems, and following up after use. The bill mandates that all covered first responders must have an epinephrine system available during duty hours. It also directs the department to compile and maintain a list of approved training organizations and may distribute epinephrine systems using existing funds. This law directly affects over a dozen public safety roles by standardizing emergency allergy response protocols.

Maddy summarySB 511 (2026 Legislature) amends Wisconsin statute 6.87(9) to clarify that municipal clerks must return absentee ballots with incomplete or missing voter certification to the voter. The bill requires clerks to return the ballot (inside its sealed envelope, if applicable) with a new envelope, allowing voters time to correct the error and resubmit before the deadline. This directly affects absentee voters who make mistakes on their ballot certificates and municipal clerks handling ballot processing. The change aims to reduce ballot disqualification due to minor administrative errors.

Maddy summarySB 509 would allow 17-year-olds to vote in primary elections if they will turn 18 by the date of the general election. The bill updates voting eligibility rules to include this group, requiring them to meet standard residency and registration requirements like other voters. However, the law requires a referendum for implementation, meaning voters must approve it before it takes effect. This change would directly affect eligible 17-year-old residents who are otherwise qualified to vote in primaries.

Maddy summarySJR 20 is a ceremonial resolution honoring the late Representative Jim Soletski, who served Wisconsin's 88th Assembly District as a Democrat from 2006-2010. It commemorates his career as a legislator (including committee leadership roles on Energy, Clean Energy Jobs, and Tribal Relations), his work in the energy industry, and his community service. The resolution formally recognizes his life, public service, and passing on August 20, 2024, and extends condolences to his family. It has no policy impact or direct effect on constituents, as it is purely symbolic.

Maddy summarySB 510 requires state elected officials (including governors, legislators, and statewide officeholders) to serve as election officials during elections. Specifically, they must serve for at least 8 hours on election day during their first full term and every three years thereafter, unless medically unable (with physician certification). Officials must complete required training but cannot be paid for this service, and their appointment does not count toward municipal staffing limits. The bill applies to all nonjudicial elected state officials holding office, excluding elections where they are candidates. This mandate aims to involve elected leaders directly in election administration.

Maddy summarySB 523 requires election boards to mark the poll list number of each absentee voter on the back of their ballot after verifying eligibility and ballot endorsement. This procedural change directly affects local election boards handling absentee ballots and ensures consistent tracking of voter participation. The bill specifies that boards must mark the number without unfolding or examining the ballot, following verification steps outlined in existing election statutes. It does not alter voting eligibility or ballot content, only the administrative process for recording absentee votes. The requirement applies to all absentee ballots except those cast under specific circumstances noted in statute.

Maddy summarySB 444 requires law enforcement officers to clearly identify themselves during arrests or detentions by verbally stating their role, displaying their surname and badge number with high-contrast visibility, and showing agency insignia in specific sizes. It mandates officers to provide the legal authority for the detention and prohibits face covering except for health/safety reasons or tactical teams. Violating these requirements is a Class D felony, though courts cannot impose jail time. The bill directly affects all officers employed by law enforcement agencies and individuals subject to arrests or detentions.

Maddy summarySB 458 would eliminate the state's right-to-work law, removing a provision that allowed employees to work without joining a union. The bill requires employers to obtain majority worker approval before implementing union security agreements (where union membership is mandatory for all employees in a workplace). It also mandates that employees personally authorize dues deductions, rather than automatic withholding. These changes directly affect private-sector employees, employers, and labor organizations across the state.