Assembly Bill 540 proposes to amend various sections of Wisconsin statutes to extend voting rights to certain 17-year-old individuals, allowing them to vote in primary elections if they will turn 18 by the date of the subsequent general election. Key amendments include changes to definitions and eligibility criteria for voters, specifically allowing individuals who are 17 on the date of a primary to participate in that primary election. The bill also clarifies that overseas electors and military electors must be at least 18 years old or will be 18 by the date of the following election to be eligible to vote.

Importantly, because this bill expands voting rights beyond the current qualifications established by the Wisconsin Constitution, it requires approval through a statewide referendum. This referendum is scheduled to take place during the November 2026 general election, where voters will decide whether to enact the provisions of the bill. If approved, the changes will take effect on January 1, 2027.

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