Wisconsin bill would bar violent felons from name changes

Gov. Tony Evers vetoed a Wisconsin bill on March 20 that would have prohibited people convicted of violent felonies from legally changing their names. The measure, known as AB124/SB146, targeted crimes like homicide, battery, kidnapping, stalking, human trafficking, and sexual assault, making violations a Class H felony.[1][2] It aimed to prevent offenders from evading identification after release.

The bill built on existing law, which already bars registered sex offenders from name changes during their registration period. Sponsored in the 2025-2026 legislative session, it passed the Senate and was qualified for an Assembly vote before reaching the governor's desk.[1][2] Evers' veto continues his pattern of rejecting certain criminal justice proposals, including one earlier requiring Department of Corrections to recommend revocations for new offenses on supervision.[2]

For Milwaukee residents, this matters amid ongoing concerns about public safety in neighborhoods plagued by violent crime. Preventing name changes could help track repeat offenders, potentially reducing risks to families and communities where such felonies hit hardest.[1][2]

Lawmakers may attempt to override the veto, needing a two-thirds majority in both chambers, or refile similar legislation in the next session.[2]