(NationalUSNews.com) — On Monday July 22, the Joint Committee for Review of Administrative Rules in Wisconsin voted to suspend three proposed emergency rules from the Wisconsin Elections Commission. The emergency rules put forward by the Wisconsin Elections Commission (WEC) were intended to handle any potential issues or conflicts arising during the increasingly chaotic 2024 election. However, critics argue that the proposed emergency rules violate existing state laws and the WEC does not have the authority to enact them.
Independent journalist Peter Bergnegger claims the emergency rules were proposed for the express purpose of cheating and to avoid investigation in the event of fraud being suspected. However, the Joint Committee for Review of Administrative Rules rejected the rules on the basis that there is no emergency that justifies bypassing the usual rule-making process. While the regular process enables the WEC to advance new election laws, the process includes a public notice and comment period. The proposed laws can also be challenged in court.
Passing these rule changes under emergency authority allows for swift and unchallenged changes that many consider to be a subversion of a democratic process. One rule that was proposed would have standardized procedures for absentee voting across the state. The other two rule changes would have addressed official challenges to nominating paperwork or candidate nominations.
It is important to note that while the emergency rule changes were struck down, they may eventually be enacted through the normal channels. However, as the regular process for approval of election law changes takes more time, these rules will not be in effect for the 2024 election. Wisconsin voters are encouraged to familiarize themselves with current election rules. The U.S. Vote Foundation provides up-to-date voter information for all states and can assist people who require absentee ballots.
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