Wisconsin § 5.51 - General provisions.
Full text of Wisconsin Wisconsin Statutes § 5.51 — General provisions., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 5.51. General provisions.
5.51(1) (1) The type face used on all paper ballots shall be easy to read. 5.51(2) (2) The paper used for ballots shall be 35 pounds per ream for sheets 24 inches by 36 inches. If a different size sheet is used, the weight per ream shall be proportioned accordingly, but shall meet this standard. This subsection does not apply to ballots used with electronic voting systems. 5.51(3) (3) All paper ballots shall be of sufficient width and length to provide space for all matter required to be printed on them. Except on ballots used with electronic voting systems, all ballot columns shall be separated by lines at least one-eighth inch in width. 5.51(4) (4) No stickers may be placed on a ballot by election officials except under s. 7.37 (6) . Any other stickers applied by them shall not be counted. 5.51(5) (5) Each official ballot shall be printed on paper of uniform color. Different colors shall be used to distinguish office and referendum ballots and different colors may be used to distinguish separate ballots for different offices. Sample ballots shall be printed on a different color paper than the official ballots, and need not have the endorsement and certificate. 5.51(6) (6) All candidates’ names for the same office shall be placed, projected or composed on the ballot in the same size, style and color of type. The style and size of type shall conform substantially to the official ballot forms prescribed by the commission under s. 7.08 (1) (a) . 5.51(7) (7) In partisan primary elections, all ballots shall be of uniform color and size, and the same type of paper shall be used for all ballots. 5.51(8) (8) Unless otherwise specifically provided, the form of all ballots shall conform to the ballot forms prescribed by the commission under s. 7.08 (1) (a) . 5.51 History History: 1979 c. 260 , 311 ; 1981 c. 377 ; 1983 a. 484 s. 174 ; 1985 a. 304 ; 1987 a. 391 ; 1999 a. 182 ; 2005 a. 92 ; 2015 a. 118 s. 266 (10) .
Frequently Asked Questions About Wisconsin § 5.51
What does Wisconsin Statutes § 5.51 cover?
Section 5.51 ("General provisions.") is part of the Wisconsin Statutes, the codified statutory law of Wisconsin. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Wisconsin § 5.51?
A common citation format is "Wisconsin Statutes § 5.51" (Wisconsin). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Wisconsin law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Wisconsin official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Wisconsin attorney.
How does Wisconsin § 5.51 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Wisconsin can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Wisconsin.