Lawmakers debate amendments likely to appear on next year's ballot

MADISON, Wis. (CBS 58) -- State lawmakers are looking to place two constitutional amendments on next year's ballot that could impact our elections. 

A joint public hearing with the Assembly and Senate elections committee was held Tuesday on a pair of proposals. One would ban non-citizens from voting in any state or local election. 

Another would prohibit local governments from accepting private grant money to help administer elections. This type of funding became controversial in 2020 after a national nonprofit sent aid to communities during the pandemic. 

Republicans argue it gave an unfair advantage to largely Democratic cities, despite all communities receiving some money.

"Having these private funds going to local municipalities rather than candidates goes against the spirit of our election laws and erodes that trust," said State Rep. Tyler August (R-Lake Geneva). 

Both measures passed the GOP-controlled Legislature last year despite opposition from Governor Evers, who is unable to veto constitutional amendments. 

If approved this year, it would be placed on the ballot next year for voters to ratify.