Madison Reporter

Legislators in Wisconsin have introduced a bill aimed at addressing the issue of holdover appointments in state offices. The proposed legislation, known as LRB-0302/1, seeks to fill a gap identified by the Wisconsin Supreme Court's 2022 decision in State ex rel. Kaul v. Prehn. This ruling stated that term expiration does not automatically result in a vacancy, allowing incumbents to remain until successors are appointed and confirmed.

Representative Allen commented on the need for this legislative change: “The Kaul v. Prehn decision showed us that our current laws leave appointive offices in limbo,” he said. “This bill fixes that by setting clear rules for vacancies, which is essential for maintaining trust in our state’s governance.”

Senator Bradley emphasized the importance of efficient government operations: “This bill is a common-sense reform that ensures our state government operates efficiently and fairly,” he stated. “By clarifying when a vacancy occurs, we’re making sure appointive offices are filled promptly, so Wisconsinites can rely on agencies and boards that are fully staffed and ready to serve.”

Representative Maxey highlighted the need for timely appointments: “Wisconsin deserves a government that keeps pace with the needs of its people,” he remarked. “This legislation prevents unnecessary delays and ensuring that qualified appointees can step in when terms expire.”

Senator Quinn addressed concerns about prolonged service of unelected appointees: “As a legislator who is elected to weigh in on nominations, I believe de facto lifetime appointments is an absurd possibility that currently exists in state law,” he said. “Unelected appointees should not serve past their term. This nonsense needs to stop.”