Assembly Bill 672 introduces significant legal changes aimed at addressing transnational repression and the enforcement of foreign laws in Wisconsin. The bill establishes a penalty enhancer for crimes committed by individuals acting as agents of foreign governments or terrorist organizations with the intent to silence or punish individuals based on their political views. Specifically, if a crime is committed under these circumstances, the classification of the crime will be elevated by one level. Additionally, the bill criminalizes the enforcement of foreign laws without prior approval from federal or state authorities, making such actions a Class E felony, which carries a mandatory minimum prison sentence of three years and a fine of at least $10,000.

To support these legal changes, the bill mandates the Department of Justice to develop training programs for law enforcement, maintain a list of countries and organizations involved in transnational repression, and create public awareness campaigns to help identify and report such cases. The bill also amends existing statutes to include the new penalty enhancer and the prohibition against illegally enforcing foreign laws. Overall, Assembly Bill 672 aims to strengthen protections against foreign influence and enhance the accountability of individuals who engage in transnational repression.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 973.01(2)(c)2.a, 973.01