Wisconsin 2013 Assembly Resolution 4 Makes Substantive Changes to the Assembly Rules

If you think the wearing of hats, for example, is a matter of substance.

Adopted 59-37



Behavior in gallery 

The resolution provides that individuals may be admitted to the visitor galleries for the sole purpose of observing the proceedings of the assembly. 

Individuals admitted to the visitor galleries shall at all times 

• remain quiet, 
• act in an orderly manner, and 
• respect the decorum of the chamber. 

The resolution provides that no individual may engage in any conduct that expresses or that may be considered to express support for or opposition to any matter before the assembly or that may come before the assembly. 

In addition, without limitation because of enumeration, no individual in the visitor galleries may use any audio or video device to 

• record, 
• photograph, 
• film, 
• videotape, 
• or in any way depict the proceedings on or about the assembly floor. 

The amended assembly rules specifically state that this policy regarding conduct is established for the purpose of keeping the doors of the assembly open, as provided in section 10 of article IV of the Wisconsin Constitution. 

The resolution provides that an individual may not engage in any behavior in the visitor galleries that the presiding officer determines does not respect the decorum of the chamber or that hinders the right of representatives to the assembly to participate in proceedings in the chamber. 

In addition, no individual may do any of the following in the visitor galleries: 

• lean over or 
• put any object over the balcony; 
• use a laptop or other computer device; 
• stand except for prayer or pledge of allegiance or as otherwise permitted by the presiding officer; 
• use recording devices of any kind; 
• use cell phones or pagers; 
• read newspapers or other printed materials; 
• eat any food or drink any beverages; 
• exhibit public displays or demonstrations; 
• display signs or placards; 
• possess bags or briefcases; or 
• wear hats. 

[First violation] Finally, the resolution provides that an individual who engages in a prohibited action may be removed from the visitor galleries and not be allowed admittance to the visitor galleries for a period of 24 hours. 

For a second violation during a biennial legislative session, the individual may be removed from the visitor galleries and not be allowed admittance to the visitor galleries until the first roll call day of the next regularly scheduled floorperiod. 

For a third violation during a biennial legislative session, the individual may be removed from visitor galleries and not be allowed admittance to the visitor galleries for the remainder of the biennial legislative session.

Dress code on assembly floor; recognition.

You want dress code.  We got Dress Code.



The resolution provides that while the assembly is in session, on the assembly floor in the rectangular area bounded on four corners by the pillars in the front and back of the chamber, members and other individuals should dress appropriately, which has traditionally been considered to include a 

• coat and tie for men and 
• appropriate attire for women. [Hmm, examples, please.]

In this area, no member or other individual may wear an 

• overcoat or 
• hat. 

 The presiding officer may exempt individuals, other than members, from these requirements when appropriate. The resolution also provides that the presiding officer is not required to recognize any member who is in violation of this dress code.