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 modifies definitions and eligibility criteria for voters, specifically stating that individuals who are 17 on the date of a primary election can participate if they will be 18 by the time of the following election. Key amendments include changes to the definitions of "overseas elector," "eligible elector," and the conditions under which individuals can vote, ensuring that the new voting rights are clearly articulated in the law.

Importantly, because this bill expands voting rights beyond the current qualifications established by the Wisconsin Constitution, it requires approval through a statewide referendum scheduled for the November 2026 general election. If the referendum passes, the provisions of the bill will take effect on January 1, 2027. The bill also includes specific language changes to clarify the age requirements for voting and the conditions under which individuals can be challenged at the polls.

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