iiinova — where your digital self keeps evolving

Reposted by Emily Lau

State Democracy Research Initiative @uwlawdemocracy.bsky.social · 1h

In the upcoming November election, Wisconsinites will be asked to vote on three proposed amendments to the Wisconsin Constitution. In a series of explainers, we describe the proposals, identify arguments for and against, and assess likely impacts. statedemocracy.law.wisc.edu/our-work/nov... 1/4

statedemocracy.law.wisc.edu

November 2026 Proposed Wisconsin Constitutional Amendments

In the upcoming November 2026 election, Wisconsin voters will be asked to vote on three proposed amendments to the Wisconsin Constitution. These…

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Reposted by Emily Lau

State Democracy Research Initiative @uwlawdemocracy.bsky.social · 20/07/2026

Recent federal efforts to exert control over state elections appear likely to intensify as the 2026 midterms approach. Our latest explainer examines state laws that provide a potential pathway for reining in federal electoral overreach: go.wisc.edu/324j0q

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Reposted by Emily Lau

State Democracy Research Initiative @uwlawdemocracy.bsky.social · 13/07/2026

As citizens have increasingly turned to direct democracy powers to make or change law, officials across states have responded with a similar set of tactics to make doing so harder. SDRI's @derekclinger.bsky.social explores the tactics and how citizens have responded in @statecourtreport.org.

statecourtreport.org

The Quiet Campaign Against Direct Democracy

As citizens have increasingly employed their powers to make or change law, state officials have used a variety of tactics to make doing so more difficult.

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Reposted by Emily Lau

State Democracy Research Initiative @uwlawdemocracy.bsky.social · 09/06/2026

In 2024, New Yorkers adopted an Amendment that expanded the state constitution’s Equal Protection Clause to bar discrimination based on ethnicity, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender expression, pregnancy status, reproductive healthcare & more. Learn more at 50constitutions.org/ny

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Reposted by Emily Lau

State Democracy Research Initiative @uwlawdemocracy.bsky.social · 12/05/2026

For decades, ICE limited enforcement operations at locations like schools and hospitals. Both Trump Administrations rescinded those guidelines. @harrisonstark.bsky.social discusses states & localities’ ability to adopt their own policies in a new report: statedemocracy.law.wisc.edu/our-work/can...

statedemocracy.law.wisc.edu

Can States Protect “Sensitive Locations” Like Courthouses, Hospitals, or Schools From Federal Immigration Enforcement?

For decades, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) limited enforcement operations at so-called “sensitive locations” like courthouses, schools, or…

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Emily Lau @ewylau.bsky.social · 07/05/2026

Are you a lawyer or law student interested in working on democracy issues? Consider applying for SDRI's Staff Attorney or Fellowship positions. These positions can be fully remote, but as one of our Madison-based staff attorneys, I have to say that moving to Madison is never a bad choice!

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Emily Lau @ewylau.bsky.social · 30/04/2026

Now more than ever, people will be turning to state institutions to protect democracy. At SDRI, our goal is to foster research and dialogue on pressing questions of public law and democracy in states across the nation. See below if you're interested in joining us.

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Reposted by Emily Lau

State Democracy Research Initiative @uwlawdemocracy.bsky.social · 20/04/2026

A recent U.S. district court decision held that states can constitutionally prohibit federal agents from wearing masks, so long as they do not discriminate against them in the process. Staff Attorney Bridget Lavender explains what this means for other states who are considering their own mask bans.

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Reposted by Emily Lau

University of Wisconsin Law School @law.wisc.edu · 17/03/2026

We’re excited to welcome Paul D. Clement, former U.S. Solicitor General, for the Robert W. Kastenmeier Lecture on March 25. Register for the in-person and virtual lecture: buff.ly/oznhRq4.

Flyer advertising the 2026 Kastenmeier Lecture, with a photo of Paul D. Clement, 43rd Solicitor General of the United States. The event will take place on March 25, 3 p.m. CT, at the Pyle Center and virtually.

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Reposted by Emily Lau

State Democracy Research Initiative @uwlawdemocracy.bsky.social · 09/03/2026

📢🚀🚨 We just launched our new website! 🚨🚀📢 📍It's easier to navigate 🔍 Has improved search features 📌And allows users to filter our work by topic and type! Check it out at statedemocracy.law.wisc.edu 👉💻⬇️

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Reposted by Emily Lau

Derek Clinger @derekclinger.bsky.social · 14/01/2026

1/ Starting a thread to track the DOJ voter data litigation as courts begin hearing these cases. So far, DOJ has sued 23 states + DC for refusing to hand over sensitive voter data like SSNs and driver's license numbers. My full analysis: statedemocracy.law.wisc.edu/featured/202...

statedemocracy.law.wisc.edu

Explainer: Can the Federal Government Force States to Hand Over Citizens’ Voter Information?

Derek Clinger, Senior Counsel PDF Available Here Published: December 19, 2025 In late October 2025, Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson released an unusual video message “warning” the state’s r...

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Reposted by Emily Lau

Taniel @taniel.bsky.social · 08/01/2026

American Samoans, unique among *everyone* born in US states or territories, are denied US citizenship. That means they are banned from voting. That's made some a target of vicious GOP prosecution for fraud; even if they were told incorrect info from public officials. A. New. Must. Read.

boltsmag.org

Americans by Name, Punished for Believing It - Bolts

This story was produced in partnership with High Country News. I. The state troopers came first for Tupe Smith. They arrived in a pair on November 30, 2023, traveling a stretch... Read More

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Reposted by Emily Lau

Bryna Godar @bgodar.bsky.social · 07/01/2026

Wrote a piece for @slate.com explaining that states have a long history of prosecuting federal officers when they allegedly use excessive force. Federal officers are only immune from such prosecutions when they act reasonably in carrying out lawful duties.

slate.com

Minnesota Could Prosecute the ICE Shooter. Trump Can’t Pardon Him.

Shortly after an ICE officer shot and killed a woman in Minneapolis, city leaders began looking into whether the officer had violated state criminal law.

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Reposted by Emily Lau

Bryna Godar @bgodar.bsky.social · 07/01/2026

In case you're wondering, yes, states can prosecute federal officials if they act beyond the scope of their duties, violate federal law, or behave in an egregious or unwarranted manner. More info here: statedemocracy.law.wisc.edu/featured/202...

statedemocracy.law.wisc.edu

Explainer: Can States Prosecute Federal Officials?

Bryna Godar, Staff Attorney PDF Available Here Published: July 17, 2025 As state and local officials increasingly clash with federal officials over immigration enforcement,[1] policing of protests,[2]...

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Reposted by Emily Lau

University of Wisconsin Law School @law.wisc.edu · 14/11/2025

Are you an attorney interested in a career in law teaching? The Hastie Fellowship is a two-year program that supports aspiring scholars in becoming law professors. Applications for the Fall 2026 Fellowship are encouraged to be submitted by this Sunday, Nov. 16. Learn more and apply: buff.ly/J1MrKkK.

buff.ly

Hastie Fellowship Applications | University of Wisconsin Law School

We use cookies to improve your experience on our website. You agree to the UW–Madison Privacy Notice by continuing to browse without changing your browser settings to block or delete cookies.

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Reposted by Emily Lau

State Democracy Research Initiative @uwlawdemocracy.bsky.social · 15/08/2025

Join us for “Education Rights and State Constitutions” on Friday, September 12 from 3:00-4:15pm Central Time, with a reception to follow. This event will take place in-person in Room 2260 in the UW Law School, with the option to attend virtually. go.wisc.edu/7ig7qx

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Reposted by Emily Lau

State Democracy Research Initiative @uwlawdemocracy.bsky.social · 08/08/2025

Can states criminally prosecute wrongdoing by federal officials? Can states authorize people to bring civil damages actions against federal officials who act unconstitutionally? We explore these questions in two new explainers. 1/ go.wisc.edu/yb8t55

go.wisc.edu

Exploring State Checks Against Federal Overreach

States have many tools to help counter federal abuses of power. Facing a torrent of controversial federal government actions, states today are pursuing or considering an array of options. In a series ...

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Reposted by Emily Lau

State Democracy Research Initiative @uwlawdemocracy.bsky.social · 02/05/2025

Join us for "The Work of State Supreme Courts" on May 30, from 9-10:30am, featuring state supreme court justices from across the country! Register for in-person or online⬇️ go.wisc.edu/p12jci

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Reposted by Emily Lau

University of Wisconsin Law School @law.wisc.edu · 25/04/2025

@uwlawdemocracy.bsky.social senior staff attorney @derekclinger.bsky.social published a new paper exploring whether Ohio legislators can override voter-approved laws based on the state's constitution: bit.ly/4jHMUDV

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Reposted by Emily Lau

State Democracy Research Initiative @uwlawdemocracy.bsky.social · 18/04/2025

The Wisconsin Supreme Court today upheld Gov. Evers’s creative partial veto that struck digits and dashes to extend a school revenue limit increase by 400 years: www.wicourts.gov/sc/opinion/D...

wicourts.gov

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Reposted by Emily Lau

Bree Grossi Wilde @breewilde.bsky.social · 15/04/2025

Our fantastic program coordinator is off to law school, so we're looking for someone to replace him this summer. Please share the listing!

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Reposted by Emily Lau

Bolts @boltsmag.org · 11/04/2025

This coming Tuesday, 16- and 17-year olds will be allowed to vote in school board elections in Newark. Approximately 6,500 teens are eligible, marking a significant shift in who gets to shape education policy. boltsmag.org/newark-...

boltsmag.org

Newark Teens Gear Up for School Board Elections After Voting Age Extended to 16

This month for the first time, 16- and 17-year olds will help decide Newark’s school board members thanks to a measure passed last year, just the third reform of its kind in the nation.

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Reposted by Emily Lau

State Court Report @statecourtreport.org · 09/04/2025

An OH court struck down parts of a law banning gender-affirming care for minors. @aliciabannon.bsky.social breaks down this notable ongoing case, which shows how state constitutions can independently protect trans people. For the latest state court news, subscribe: go.statecourtreport.org/subscribe

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Reposted by Emily Lau

State Democracy Research Initiative @uwlawdemocracy.bsky.social · 12/03/2025

Wisconsin's high-stakes April 1 Supreme Court election could chart the state's course on abortion, voting rights, unions, and more. Our new explainer gets beyond the campaign ads with detailed coverage of the candidates' judicial records and stances on key issues. go.wisc.edu/17km66

go.wisc.edu

Explainer: Wisconsin Supreme Court Race

Bryna Godar, Staff Attorney Bree Grossi Wilde, Executive Director PDF Available Here Published: March 12, 2025 On April 1, 2025, Wisconsin voters will choose the newest justice on the Wisconsin Suprem...

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Reposted by Emily Lau

State Court Report @statecourtreport.org · 07/03/2025

LAW STUDENTS: State courts represent the next legal frontier for issues like criminal law, civil rights, environmental law, and more. Join us Monday, March 17, 3pm ET for a discussion with sitting state high court justices on everything you need to know about state supreme court clerkships. RSVP:

statecourtreport.org

Clerking on a State Supreme Court

Judges from high courts across the country share insights for law students and recent graduates.

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Reposted by Emily Lau

State Democracy Research Initiative @uwlawdemocracy.bsky.social · 05/03/2025

Join us for “Local Perspectives: Mayors in American Governance” on Tuesday, April 1, from 12-1pm CT, at the UW Law School. Panelists include Mayors Julia Arata-Fratta, David Holt, Kim Norton, Steve Patterson, and Sangeetha Rayapati. Miriam Seifter is moderating. Register here: go.wisc.edu/x8j35p

go.wisc.edu

Local Perspectives: Mayors in American Governance

Join us for "Local Perspectives: Mayors in American Governance" on Tuesday, April 1, from 12:00-1:00pm Central Time.

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Reposted by Emily Lau

Bryna Godar @bgodar.bsky.social · 27/02/2025

As money pours into the Wisconsin Supreme Court race from Elon Musk, George Soros, political parties, and others, it's a good time to revisit our explainer on judicial recusal from 2023. Bottom line: campaign contributions usually don't require recusal. statedemocracy.law.wisc.edu/featured/202...

statedemocracy.law.wisc.edu

Explainer: Judicial Recusal in Wisconsin and Beyond

Derek Clinger, Senior Staff Attorney Professor Robert Yablon, Faculty Co-Director PDF Available Here Table of Contents Introduction I. Background: The Law of Judicial Recusal A. Federal Constitutional...

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Reposted by Emily Lau

Kasia Szymborski Wolfkot @kasiawolfkot.bsky.social · 26/02/2025

Here's a list of user-friendly resources about state courts and constitutions, like: -an interactive map on abortion rights -a curated database of important state constitutional rulings & briefs -details on judicial financial disclosures and way more @statecourtreport.bsky.social

statecourtreport.org

State Constitutional Resources We Love

For those who want to know more about state constitutions, a compilation of tools including case databases, interactive maps, and more.

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Reposted by Emily Lau

Melissa Hung @melissahung.bsky.social · 18/02/2025

Not surprised that it's community colleges that are fighting back. Community colleges serve the greatest number of people facing systemic barriers. A large percentage of community college students are the first in their family to attend college.

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Reposted by Emily Lau

State Democracy Research Initiative @uwlawdemocracy.bsky.social · 14/02/2025

We’re hiring! SDRI is searching for a Legal Director and a Senior Staff Attorney or Staff Attorney. Read more about these positions and apply here: Legal Director posting: go.wisc.edu/d0fq8t Senior Staff Attorney/Staff Attorney posting: go.wisc.edu/37e3w9

go.wisc.edu

Legal Director - State Democracy Research Initiative - Madison, Wisconsin, United States

Job Summary: The Legal Director's precise portfolio can be tailored to their interests and experience, but we anticipate that their work will primarily involve guiding our amicus brief strategy and ...

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Reposted by Emily Lau

State Democracy Research Initiative @uwlawdemocracy.bsky.social · 10/02/2025

Join us for “Understanding State Supreme Court Elections: Wisconsin and Beyond” Friday, March 7 at 3pm CT, at the UW Law School or online. Panelists include @bcburden.bsky.social, Michael Kang, and @yeargain.bsky.social, with @miriamseifter.bsky.social moderating. Register here: go.wisc.edu/96y654

go.wisc.edu

Understanding State Supreme Court Elections: Wisconsin & Beyond

A moderated panel featuring leading experts in judicial elections and campaign dynamics.

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Emily Lau @ewylau.bsky.social · 06/01/2025

Judge Myers has remanded the case back to the NC Supreme Court.

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Reposted by Emily Lau

State Democracy Research Initiative @uwlawdemocracy.bsky.social · 06/01/2025

In 1902, Oregon became the third state to enshrine direct democracy in its state constitution. Proponents argued that the initiative would keep power in the hands of the people. Voters agreed, ratifying the change with 92% in favor. Learn more at 50constitutions.org/or

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Reposted by Emily Lau

State Democracy Research Initiative @uwlawdemocracy.bsky.social · 02/01/2025

In 2022, New Mexico voters approved an amendment to fund early childhood education through the Land Grant Permanent Fund, which also funds New Mexico’s public school system. Learn more at: 50constitutions.org/nm

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Reposted by Emily Lau

State Democracy Research Initiative @uwlawdemocracy.bsky.social · 20/12/2024

The outcome of November's NC Supreme Court election is being litigated, with more than 60,000 votes being challenged. This explainer from SDRI’s @ewlau.bsky.social offers background on the dispute and how it made its way to court: statedemocracy.law.wisc.edu/featured/202...

statedemocracy.law.wisc.edu

Explainer: North Carolina Supreme Court Election Protest

Emily Lau, Staff Attorney PDF Available Here More than a month after the November 2024 election, the result of the North Carolina Supreme Court race is still uncertain. There have been two recounts—on...

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Reposted by Emily Lau

Mark Joseph Stern @mjsdc.bsky.social · 18/12/2024

This decision is eminently reasonable under the state constitution's unusually strong protections for the environment. It's a very different beast from federal climate lawsuits, rooted squarely in the text of Montana law and precedent. juddocumentservice.mt.gov/getDocByCTra...

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Mark Joseph Stern @mjsdc.bsky.social · 18/12/2024

The Montana Supreme Court says the framers who enacted the state's constitution refused to "grant the State a free pass to pollute the Montana environment just because the rest of the world insisted on doing so." A lot here about climate change in Montana. juddocumentservice.mt.gov/getDocByCTra...

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Mark Joseph Stern @mjsdc.bsky.social · 18/12/2024

Whoa—the Montana Supreme Court holds that its state constitution protects the right to "a stable climate system," and strikes down a law that barred consideration of greenhouse gas emissions when permitting new fossil fuel projects. juddocumentservice.mt.gov/getDocByCTra...

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Reposted by Emily Lau

State Democracy Research Initiative @uwlawdemocracy.bsky.social · 18/12/2024

Although convention delegates eventually compromised on the substance of Minnesota’s first constitution, delegates from opposing political parties refused to sign the same document. So, they created two copies to sign and present to Congress. Learn more at 50constitutions.org/mn

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Reposted by Emily Lau

State Democracy Research Initiative @uwlawdemocracy.bsky.social · 13/12/2024

Before the 19th amendment extended voting rights to women nationwide, advocates had successfully been advancing women's suffrage through state constitutional amendments. Learn more about the Idaho constitution at 50constitutions.org/id

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Reposted by Emily Lau

Annie Waldman @anniewaldman.bsky.social · 13/12/2024

NEW: After reviewing leaked documents, we have found UnitedHealth is strategically limiting access to a treatment for thousands of children with autism across the country in order to cut costs. Advocates say the company’s strategy may be illegal. www.propublica.org/article/unit... 👇

propublica.org

UnitedHealth Is Strategically Limiting Access to Critical Treatment for Kids With Autism

Leaked internal documents show that the insurance giant is culling providers of applied behavior analysis from its network and scrutinizing the medical necessity of therapy. Advocates say the company’...

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Reposted by Emily Lau

Jen Bendery @jbendery.bsky.social · 12/12/2024

NEW: Ryan Park, one of Biden's four appeals court nominees languishing on the Senate floor, is withdrawing his nomination. His letter to Biden in here. www.huffpost.com/entry/ryan-p...

huffpost.com

Ryan Park, Biden Court Pick Stalled In The Senate, Withdraws His Nomination

The appeals court nominee says he’s going to keep his current job as the North Carolina solicitor general.

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Reposted by Emily Lau

Alicia Bannon @aliciabannon.bsky.social · 11/12/2024

Big news out of Montana. The Montana Supreme Court upheld a lower court ruling that temporarily blocks a law banning gender-affirming care for minors. The court pointed to the Montana Constitution's protections for privacy rights.

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Emily Lau @ewylau.bsky.social · 11/12/2024

Check out the newest states on 50constitutions.org to go live with Tracking Constitutional Change features, which allows users to view amendments to state constitutional provisions over time. Feedback welcome! We look forward to adding new states and features in the coming years!

50constitutions.org

Explore State Constitutions | 50 Constitutions

State constitutions are distinctive documents, not just miniature federal constitutions. Learn about your state constitution’s text and history at 50 Constitutions.

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