June 2, 2011

Two election reform measures introduced by Senator Mary Lazich (R-New Berlin) were heard at a joint meeting of the Senate Committee on Transportation and Elections and the Assembly Committee on Elections and Campaign Reform Thursday.

Senate Bill 115 (SB 115) changes the date of Wisconsin’s presidential primary from the third Tuesday during February to the first Tuesday during April, the same day as the state’s non-partisan spring general election. Both the Republican Party and Democratic Party of Wisconsin submitted testimony supporting SB 115. Changes to national Republican and Democratic Party rules provided the impetus behind SB 115.

"While I am reluctant to move the presidential primary to a later date, the national Republican and Democratic parties established nominating delegate penalties for non-compliance," Lazich said. "It is good to see bipartisanship is not dead. Wisconsin will continue to be a critical test for serious presidential candidates."

Senate Bill 116 (SB 116) is mandated by the federal MOVE Act. The MOVE Act requires more time for military voters to cast their votes. Among other things, SB 116 changes the date of the fall partisan primary for statewide office.

"The least we can do is assure our soldiers are allowed time to receive ballots, return ballots, and have their vote count, especially after the Memorial Day reminder of the soldiers great sacrifice."

As chair of the Senate Committee on Transportation and Elections, Senator ​Lazich is a driving force behind election reform measures. Along with SB 115 and 116, Lazich was closely involved in writing Wisconsin’s new voter ID legislation.