In the first week of the 2025-26 legislative session, Republicans in the Wisconsin Legislature are advancing a proposal (Senate Joint Resolution 2) to enshrine the state’s voter ID law into the constitution. The measure is moving quickly for it to be placed on the ballot for voters in April.

On Tuesday January 7, the Senate held a hearing on the resolution, followed by a floor vote on the measure the following day. The resolution, passed along party lines, now heads to the Assembly for final approval before being placed on the ballot. The Assembly plans to take up the resolution next week.

Republican sponsors say the measure is a safeguard against potential legal challenges, as control of the state Supreme Court could shift following an April election. Democrats oppose the amendment, citing concerns about voter accessibility and fairness. If enacted, the amendment would still allow lawmakers to determine acceptable forms of ID and provide exceptions.