Vernon County board votes to place advisory referendum on April 4 ballot asking repeal of 1849 abortion ban

The Vernon County Board of Supervisors voted 15–3 on Jan. 26 to place an advisory referendum on the April 4, 2023 ballot asking voters whether the Wisconsin Legislature should repeal the state's 1849 abortion ban, which the referendum text said provides no exceptions for rape or incest nor to protect the mother's health. Supervisor Jacobson moved adoption, seconded by Supervisor Eggen; the clerk recorded 15 "aye," 3 "nay," and 1 excused. Supervisors Semke, Pedretti and Schweiger voted against the measure.

Board members heard public comment in favor of the referendum during the meeting's public-comment period. "We need to let the voters speak on this," said Wayde Lawler of Viroqua, one of multiple residents who addressed the Board. Janet Kruk of LaFarge and several other residents also urged placement of the question on the spring ballot.

Supporters said they sought an earlier (April) vote rather than waiting until the November 2024 general election, which the resolution achieves by directing placement on April 4 if the Board preempts the petition schedule. The resolution cites Vernon County Ordinance Chapter 2, Article V and directs county election officials to place the advisory question on the April 4 ballot, removing it from the November 5, 2024 ballot if adopted.

The advisory referendum does not, by itself, change state law; it simply records local voters' opinion for state legislators and policymakers. The Board adopted the resolution after a brief discussion and roll-call vote. The petition that launched the effort had been certified sufficient by the County Clerk on Dec. 27, 2022.

The Board will publish details about the referendum question and voting logistics ahead of the April election; the clerk and county staff will administer the ballot item as part of the spring election schedule.