Statewide referendums keep coming. Some lawmakers want to simplify them for voters.

When Wisconsin voters heads to the polls, there are sometimes questions alongside candidates’ names. And those questions can have big consequences, like amending the state constitution.

Now, voters could get more information about some of those referendum questions in advance of voting, under a proposal being considered at the state Capitol.

As written, the bill would require the nonpartisan Legislative Reference Bureau — which drafts bills for the Legislature — to provide a plain-language summary of any statewide referendum. It would also need to clearly explain what a “yes” or “no” vote would do.

Because Wisconsin does not have a process for voters to put policy-changing questions on the ballot, sometimes called citizen ballot initiatives, the proposal would primarily affect constitutional amendments. Those go to voters for approval after passing two consecutive sessions of the Legislature. In recent years, Republicans who run the Legislature have used this tool more frequently as they seek to bypass the veto pen of Democratic Gov. Tony Evers.




https://www.wpr.org/news/proposed-constitutional-amendments-plain-language-referendums