Kenosha Passes New Ordinance to Protect Poll Workers from Harassment

Kenosha, WI (WLIP)–In a unanimous 15-0 vote, the Kenosha Common Council passed a new ordinance aimed at protecting poll workers from harassment during elections.

The ordinance, spearheaded by Alderman Jan Michalski with co-sponsors Bill Siel and Rollin Pizzala, addresses growing concerns over the safety of poll workers in the current politically charged climate.

Supporters of the ordinance emphasized that while no major incidents have occurred in recent elections, there has been an uptick in minor disputes, and national trends show increased hostility toward election workers.

“Our poll workers are our neighbors, and they don’t deserve to be harassed for doing their jobs,” Michalski said during the discussion.

He noted that, with this ordinance, the city can respond more quickly to incidents than relying on state or federal protections.

Despite support, some opposition was voiced during the public hearing.

Longtime poll worker Mary Moser, who has served the city for 24 years, criticized the ordinance, calling it unnecessary.

“We have plenty of laws. This is garbage and a waste of time,” Moser said, arguing that existing disorderly conduct statutes already provide adequate protection.

However, city officials, including the city attorney, clarified that while disorderly conduct laws cover some situations, the new ordinance gives clearer, more focused protection for election workers.

The ordinance, now part of the Kenosha Code of General Ordinances, penalizes individuals who harass or threaten poll workers with fines ranging from $300 to $1,000 and possible jail time of up to 90 days.

This move comes in response to similar legislation passed in other Wisconsin municipalities and concerns raised by the Kenosha County Clerk, who urged local action ahead of what could be a contentious election cycle.

“It’s better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it,” Michalski remarked, reflecting the council’s preventive approach.

The new law will go into effect immediately, providing poll workers in Kenosha with an added layer of protection ahead of the upcoming elections.