Wisconsin Administrative Code Elections Commission
The Wisconsin Elections Commission (WEC) is the state agency responsible for administering elections and ensuring compliance with election laws in Wisconsin. It oversees:
Voter registration
Election procedures
Campaign finance reporting
Enforcement of election laws
The Commission operates under specific chapters of the Wisconsin Administrative Code, usually labeled EL. These rules provide the detailed regulations for how elections must be conducted and how the Commission operates.
EL 1 – Authority and Definitions
Purpose
Establishes the legal authority of the Elections Commission.
Provides definitions of key terms used in election administration.
Key Definitions
Elector / Voter: A person eligible to vote in Wisconsin.
Ballot: Official form used for voting.
Election Official: Any person authorized to administer or oversee an election.
Polling Place: The location where voters cast their ballots.
This chapter ensures consistent interpretation of terms throughout the administrative rules.
EL 2 – Voter Registration
Purpose
Specifies the requirements for voter registration and maintaining voter rolls.
Main Rules
Eligibility Requirements
Must be a U.S. citizen
Resident of Wisconsin
At least 18 years old by Election Day
Not otherwise disqualified due to a felony conviction (unless restored) or court order
Registration Methods
In-person registration at municipal clerks’ offices
Online registration through state systems
Registration at polling places on Election Day
Maintenance of Voter Rolls
Municipal clerks must remove ineligible voters
Update addresses, name changes, and other personal info
EL 3 – Conduct of Elections
Purpose
Provides rules for running elections and the duties of election officials.
Key Points
Ballot preparation and security
Ballots must meet design standards
Ballots must be secured before, during, and after voting
Voting Procedures
In-person and absentee voting procedures
Instructions for using voting equipment
Procedures for counting and reporting votes
Polling Place Operations
Hours of operation
Accessibility requirements
Handling provisional ballots
EL 4 – Campaign Finance and Reporting
Purpose
Ensures transparency in election-related finances.
Key Rules
Candidates and committees must file regular reports of contributions and expenditures.
Reports include:
Donor names and contribution amounts
Campaign expenditures
Loans or debts related to campaigns
The Commission monitors compliance and can impose penalties for late or incomplete reporting.
EL 5 – Enforcement and Penalties
Purpose
Provides rules for enforcing election laws and disciplining violators.
Enforcement Tools
Investigations: The Commission can investigate suspected violations of election law.
Orders and Penalties: Includes fines, warnings, or other corrective actions.
Appeals: Decisions by the Commission can usually be appealed to the courts.
EL 6 – Election Records and Reporting
Purpose
Ensures proper recordkeeping and reporting of election results.
Key Rules
Municipal clerks must submit election results to the WEC.
Records must be retained for a set period, including ballots, poll books, and reports.
Data must be accessible for public inspection, subject to privacy rules.
Overall Purpose of the Code
The Wisconsin Administrative Code for the Elections Commission is designed to:
Protect voters’ rights
Ensure fair, secure, and transparent elections
Provide clear procedures for administrators, officials, and candidates
Maintain public confidence in the electoral process
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