Senate Bill 509 proposes to amend various sections of Wisconsin statutes to extend voting rights to certain 17-year-old individuals, allowing them to vote in primaries if they will turn 18 by the date of the subsequent general election. The bill includes several amendments to existing laws, such as redefining the eligibility criteria for voters to include those who are 17 years old on the date of a primary election, provided they will be 18 by the next general election. Key amendments include changes to the definitions of "overseas elector," "eligible elector," and the requirements for military electors, ensuring that the voting rights of 17-year-olds are clearly articulated in the context of these categories.

Importantly, because this bill extends voting rights beyond the current qualifications established by the Wisconsin Constitution, it mandates that the proposed changes be approved by a majority vote in a statewide referendum scheduled for the November 2026 general election. If the referendum passes, the act will take effect on January 1, 2027. The bill also includes provisions for the administration of oaths for challenged electors, ensuring that all individuals who vote, including those newly eligible, meet the necessary qualifications.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 5.02(12n), 5.02, 6.02(1), 6.02, 6.02(2), 6.05, 6.22(6), 6.22, 6.24(1), 6.24, 6.94, 7.52(5)(b), 7.52