WI AJR121

Proposes a constitutional amendment to Article VI, Section 4(3)(c) allowing county boards of supervisors to delegate custody of the county jail and inmates from the sheriff to another public officer or public entity

Currently, Wisconsin Supreme Court precedent (State ex rel. Kennedy v. Brunst, 1870; Kocken v. Wisconsin Council of Churches 40, 2007) establishes that sheriffs have inherent constitutional authority over county jails

Introduced December 3, 2025 by Representatives Clancy, Madison, Arney, Hong, Phelps, Tenorio, Bare, Stubbs, and Neubauer; referred to Committee on State Affairs

As a constitutional amendment on first consideration, requires adoption by two successive legislatures and voter ratification before taking effect

Must be published for 3 months prior to the next general election before being referred to the newly elected legislature for second consideration