Urge Wisconsin Gov. Evers to VETO “Dissent is Terrorism” Bills AB 672 and SB 650

Wisconsin’s AB 672 and SB 650 are anti-dissent bills that expand the state’s power to criminalize political ideology, advocacy, and protest through enhanced penalties and mandatory incarceration.

These bills are identical in substance—SB 650 is the Senate companion to AB 672—and together they represent a dangerous escalation in the state’s ability to punish lawful political expression.

AB 672 / SB 650 are not carefully targeted measures. They are vague, overbroad, and designed to punish political expression, advocacy, and dissent. Their enforcement would give the state sweeping authority to decide whose speech and activism are lawful, and whose are criminal.

Here are ADC’s top concerns with these bills:

1. Criminalizes free speech and protest. The bills’ use of vague terms—such as “agent of a foreign terrorist organization”—is deliberate. This language creates a mechanism to punish dissenting political views, not violent acts. Under AB 672 / SB 650, advocating for Palestinian rights, protesting ICE raids, or criticizing U.S. foreign policy could be labeled “terrorism” and lead to felony charges and severe financial penalties.

2. Gives the state dangerous power to silence dissent. AB 672 / SB 650 turn law enforcement into a tool for political repression. By leaving key terms undefined—such as “foreign terrorist organization” and “agent”—the bills allow the state to decide whose speech is criminal. This invites selective enforcement against Muslims, immigrants, activists, journalists, and others who challenge government policies.

3. Wastes WI taxpayer money to jail protestors. The bills impose mandatory prison sentences and dramatically increase penalties for vaguely defined offenses. This will overburden Wisconsin’s courts and prisons, costing taxpayers millions annually—all this to police free speech, not to enhance public safety.

Contrary to their purported purpose, AB 672 and SB 650 are not about protecting the American public from a defined threat. Their latent purpose (and intended effect) is to chill protest, silence journalists, and criminalize lawful political activity protected by the First Amendment.

For these reasons—and for the serious constitutional and civil liberties concerns outlined above—ADC firmly opposes both AB 672 and SB 650.

Take action now! 

The right to dissent is squarely protected under the First Amendment. Stand up for free speech, racial justice, and your right to protest.

Urge your Wisconsin Governor to VETO AB 672 and SB 650.