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Bill

SB 52

Relating to: copies of and inspection or disclosure of information contained in certain vital records. (FE)

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by André Jacque

SB 52 restricts access to and disclosure of Wisconsin vital records information, affecting genealogy research, identity verification, and government administration processes.

Failed to pass pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 1
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Bill Summary · SB 52

Legislative bill overview

SB 52 modifies Wisconsin's vital records laws to control how copies of and access to information in certain vital records (birth, death, marriage, divorce certificates) can be obtained and inspected. The bill appears designed to restrict disclosure of vital record information beyond what current law permits, though specific restrictions are not detailed in the available legislative summary.

Why is this important

Vital records access affects numerous legitimate activities including genealogical research, identity verification, inheritance claims, and government administration. Changes to disclosure rules could impact how individuals access their own records, how researchers use historical data, and how government agencies obtain necessary documentation—making this relevant to privacy, genealogy, and administrative efficiency.

Potential points of contention

  • Privacy vs. Public Access: Balancing individual privacy rights against the public's legitimate interest in accessing genealogical and historical records
  • Self-Access Rights: Whether restrictions might inadvertently prevent individuals from easily obtaining their own vital records or those of family members
  • Government and Institutional Needs: Whether changes could burden government agencies, courts, genealogists, and researchers who rely on vital records access for legitimate purposes
  • Implementation Clarity: The fiscal estimate suggests administrative costs; unclear how counties and the state will enforce new requirements

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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