Assembly Bill 377 proposes to establish English as the official state language of Wisconsin. The bill allows state and local governmental entities to use artificial intelligence or other machine-assisted translation tools instead of appointing English language interpreters when required by law. It mandates that all oral and written communications by governmental entities be conducted in English, with exceptions for specific circumstances, such as protecting health and safety or complying with federal laws. Additionally, the bill ensures that no governmental entity can prohibit individuals from becoming proficient in any language or restrict the use of any language for non-governmental purposes.

The bill also includes amendments to existing statutes regarding the provision of interpreters in municipal courts and administrative contested case proceedings. It modifies the language to clarify that if a person has a language difficulty or impairment, the court or agency must determine if an interpreter is necessary. The amendments replace terms like "individual" and "he or she" with "person" and "the party," respectively, to promote gender-neutral language. Furthermore, it specifies that the right to an interpreter remains unless the person waives it voluntarily in court or during administrative proceedings.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 885.37(1), 885.37, 885.37(3)(b), 885.38(3)(a)(intro.), 885.38