Wisconsin Republicans are pushing a trio of election reform bills aimed at increasing transparency and restoring voter confidence after years of controversy surrounding the state’s election process.

The legislation, introduced in the State Assembly, would overhaul how referendums appear on ballots, restrict who can circulate petitions, and give more voters standing to challenge the Wisconsin Elections Commission (WEC) in court.

At the center of the debate is Assembly Bill 207, which targets growing frustration over confusing and legalistic ballot language. The bill would require the Legislature to produce plain-language summaries of statewide referendums—replacing the current process where the Attorney General writes the explanations. The goal: help voters understand what a “yes” or “no” vote actually means.

“Voters deserve a clear, nonpartisan explanation of what they’re voting on,” said Rep. Maxey. “This bill puts that responsibility where it belongs — with the Legislature.”

Assembly Bill 223 would limit who can circulate nomination or recall petitions by requiring circulators to be Wisconsin residents for at least 28 days. Supporters say it’s a commonsense measure to ensure accountability in local elections. (RELATED: Milwaukee Police Slayer Had History of Violence)

Assembly Bill 268 would expand legal standing to appeal WEC decisions. Currently, only individuals who prove personal harm can challenge a ruling in court. AB 268 allows any complainant to appeal—something Republicans argue is necessary to bring the commission into full compliance with federal law.

The proposed reforms come amid mounting pressure from voters and conservative watchdog groups who argue that election procedures have grown too opaque and unaccountable. Recent referendums with dense, legal wording have only deepened public skepticism. (RELATED: Bill Berrien Backs Ranked Choice Voting Scheme Pushed by the Left)

While both parties agree the process needs to be clearer, Democrats favor rewriting the ballot language itself, while Republicans prefer attaching a disclosure notice that explains the vote without altering the original question. With constitutional amendments increasingly used to bypass gubernatorial vetoes, how these questions are presented could shape the state’s political future.

More election-related legislation is expected in the next session, as Wisconsin remains a key battleground not only in national elections—but in the broader fight over who controls how votes are cast and counted.