Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers on Thursday vetoed a Republican proposal that would have given election observers access to poll workers and required new post-election audits, while also introducing political television using artificial intelligence. Signed a bill requiring disclaimers in advertising.
Evers, a Democrat, also signed a bipartisan bill that exempts purchases of precious metals such as gold and silver from state sales tax. This exemption does not apply to jewelry or other personal property, including art and scrap metal. However, coins, bars, rounds or sheets containing at least 35% gold, silver, copper, platinum or palladium will be exempt from sales tax.
The AI bill also passed with bipartisan support. Supporters argued that ads using rapidly evolving AI technology should have disclaimers so viewers can get help deciding between fact and fiction.
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Mr. Evers also signed a bill that would allow children to occasionally sell crafts and other non-food items in public places such as parks without obtaining a permit. Current law already allows children to operate lemonade stands on private property without fear of being shut down by the government due to lack of a permit. The new law expands the scope of people under 18 who can sell goods in public places such as parks.
Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers speaks on Thursday, January 25, 2024 in Superior, Wisconsin. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
Evers vetoed four Republican election-related bills.
A post-election audit would have been required, but Evers objected to Republicans’ “continued efforts to interfere in and seize control of elections and undermine Wisconsin’s election system.” He said he had exercised his veto. Evers said existing post-election audits already ensure that the state’s elections are fair and properly conducted.
Another vetoed bill would have allowed election observers to be within 3 feet of election workers. Current law prohibits people from coming within 3 feet of workers.
Republicans have long pushed for observers to be given more powers while monitoring people’s votes. But Evers said in his veto message that allowing the two sides to move closer would increase the risk of interference and voter intimidation.
He vetoed two bills that would have tightened rules for voting and collecting absentee ballots in nursing homes. Republicans introduced the system after criticizing how voting was conducted in nursing homes during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Evers also vetoed a bill that would have required a special election or Senate approval for vacancies in the positions of secretary of state, secretary of the treasury, attorney general and secretary of the Department of Public Instruction. Republicans pushed the bill after Evers nominated Sarah Godlewski as secretary of state after elected official Doug La Follette resigned.
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Evers said he objected to the Legislature’s attempt to infringe on his appointment rights. He said the proposal, if passed, could leave the post vacant for an extended period of time.
