Assembly Bill 426 aims to enhance the rights of election observers in Wisconsin by ensuring they have uniform and nondiscriminatory access to all stages of the election process, including recounts. The bill amends existing statutes to require municipal clerks, chief inspectors, and boards of canvassers to provide designated observation areas that allow observers to adequately monitor the voting process. Additionally, it introduces penalties for election officials who violate these provisions, including potential imprisonment for up to 90 days or fines of up to $1,000.

The bill also modifies the language regarding the public conduct of recounts, mandating that all steps be performed publicly and in accordance with the new provisions established in the bill. This includes ensuring that observers can view and identify all materials and ballots during the recount process, while only authorized personnel may handle them. Overall, the legislation seeks to strengthen transparency and accountability in the electoral process by safeguarding the rights of observers.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 7.41(2), 7.41, 9.01(1)(b)11, 9.01