Concerns over voter privacy and rights took center stage during the Wisconsin Senate Committee on Shared Revenue, Elections, and Consumer Protection meeting on December 19, 2023. The discussion primarily revolved around a proposed bill that would allow notifications to be sent to contacts of residents in care facilities when special voting deputies are present for absentee voting.

Advocates raised significant concerns about the implications of this bill, particularly regarding the potential erosion of voter privacy. One speaker highlighted that the current language could allow an unlimited number of people to witness a resident's voting process, undermining the confidentiality that is typically afforded in a voting booth. "If you have a number of people witnessing the voting, it is not the same as being in a private voting booth," they stated, emphasizing the need for privacy, especially for vulnerable populations such as older adults and individuals with disabilities.

The bill's provision for blanket notifications was criticized for potentially leading to undue influence on residents' voting decisions. Concerns were voiced that the presence of multiple contacts could intimidate voters or even lead to legal challenges regarding their voting rights. "We worry that the notification would prompt some contacts to unduly influence the resident's vote or initiate court proceedings to take away their civil rights," one advocate warned.

While section one of the bill, which clarifies voting rights for individuals under guardianship, received support, section three faced strong opposition. Advocates argued that it was not ready for passage due to the privacy concerns it raised. "We do not want assumptions about where someone lives to dictate their legal competency to vote," another speaker noted, calling for a clearer distinction between the two sections of the bill.

The committee also discussed the current practices surrounding voting in care facilities, noting that while residents can opt to have contacts notified, there is no existing requirement for blanket notifications. This raised questions about the necessity of the proposed changes, with some members suggesting that existing laws already provide sufficient privacy protections.

As the committee deliberates, the future of the bill remains uncertain, with advocates urging lawmakers to prioritize the protection of voter rights and privacy for those in care facilities. The discussions highlighted the delicate balance between ensuring access to voting and safeguarding the rights of individuals who may be vulnerable to external influences.