The proposed bill, Senate Bill 85, aims to create a new statute, 118.335, which explicitly protects the rights of American Indian students to wear traditional tribal regalia during graduation ceremonies and school-sponsored events. Currently, while Wisconsin law provides some protections against discrimination based on race, religion, and national origin, it does not specifically address the rights of American Indian students in this context. The bill defines "traditional tribal regalia" as a tribe's traditional dress or recognized objects of religious or cultural significance, including tribal symbols, beads, and feathers.

Under this new provision, school boards and charter schools are prohibited from denying students who are members of, descendants of, or eligible to be enrolled in a federally recognized American Indian tribe or band the right to wear their traditional regalia. This legislative change is intended to honor and respect the cultural heritage of American Indian students, ensuring they can express their identity during significant school events.