Wisconsin board approves election observer rules

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Wisconsin election officials have approved permanent rules that would require poll observers to stay at least 6 feet away from voters.

The rules say municipal clerks can’t allow observers any closer to the table where voters announce their names and addresses than 6 feet whenever physically feasible. They can’t place observers any farther from the table than 12 feet.

The rules say observers are allowed at the polls but prohibit them from engaging in electioneering, using cellphones and using cameras while the polls are open.

The Government Accountability Board has imposed the requirements through policy statements and emergency rules since 2008. The new rules would make the requirements permanent.

The board voted unanimously Tuesday to adopt the rules. They’re still subject to legislative approval, however.