Wisconsin Constitution Article VI - Administrative
Wisconsin Constitution – Article VI: Administrative
Summary:
Article VI of the Wisconsin Constitution outlines the executive administrative offices of the state, focusing particularly on the Secretary of State, Treasurer, Attorney General, and the Sheriffs of counties. It defines their election, powers, duties, and eligibility.
Key Sections and Highlights of Article VI:
Section 1 – Secretary of State, Treasurer, and Attorney General
These officers are elected by the people at the same time as the governor.
They serve a 4-year term.
Their duties are prescribed by law, meaning the legislature can define or modify what they do.
They must be U.S. citizens and qualified electors of Wisconsin.
Section 2 – County Sheriffs, Coroners, Registers of Deeds, and District Attorneys
These county officers are also elected by the people.
They serve 4-year terms.
The legislature may regulate their duties, including abolishing or combining offices (like coroner and medical examiner).
Sheriffs are not allowed to serve successive terms, although amendments have made exceptions over time.
Section 3 – Sheriffs’ Accountability
Sheriffs must renew their security (bond) if required by law.
They can be sued for official misconduct.
Section 4 – Governor’s Powers
This section formerly covered the governor's power to fill administrative vacancies but has since been repealed or modified.
Purpose and Function:
Article VI ensures that key executive and administrative functions are managed by accountable officials chosen by the electorate.
It provides flexibility for the legislature to adapt duties as administrative needs change.
The prohibition on sheriffs’ re-election (originally strict) reflects historical efforts to limit the concentration of local power.
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