Robyn Vining, Wisconsin State Representative for 13th District | Official Website
Robyn Vining, Wisconsin State Representative for 13th District | Official Website
According to the Wisconsin State Legislature's official website, the bill was described as follows: "pupils wearing traditional tribal regalia at a graduation ceremony or school-sponsored event".
The following is our breakdown, based on the actual bill text, and may include interpretation to clarify its provisions.
In essence, this bill mandates that school boards and charter schools in Wisconsin cannot bar students who are members of, descendants of members, or eligible to be enrolled in a federally recognized or previously recognized American Indian tribe or band from wearing traditional tribal regalia at graduation ceremonies or school-sponsored events. The bill defines "traditional tribal regalia" as traditional dress or recognized objects of religious or cultural significance, such as tribal symbols, beads, and feathers. This measure ensures the cultural expression of American Indian students is protected during significant school events.
The bill was co-authored by Senator André Jacque (Republican-1st District), Representative Alex R. Joers (Democrat-81st District), Representative Vincent Miresse (Democrat-71st District), Representative Angela Stroud (Democrat-73rd District), and Representative Shelia Stubbs (Democrat-78th District).
Robyn Vining has co-authored another 13 bills since the beginning of the 2025 session, with none of them being enacted.
Vining graduated from James Madison University in 1999 with a BA and again in 1999 from James Madison University with a BS.
Vining, a Democrat, was elected to the Wisconsin State Assembly in 2025 to represent the state's 13th Assembly district, replacing previous state representative Tom Michalski.
In Wisconsin, the legislative process starts when a senator, constituent, group, or agency proposes an idea for a bill. After drafting, the bill is introduced, numbered, and referred to a committee for review and public input. If approved, it moves through three readings and votes in both the Senate and Assembly. Once both chambers pass the same version, the bill goes to the governor, who can sign it, veto it, or let it become law without a signature. Only a small share of bills introduced each session ultimately become law. You can learn more about the Wisconsin legislative process here.
| Bill Number | Date Introduced | Short Description |
|---|---|---|
| AB98 | 03/03/2025 | Pupils wearing traditional tribal regalia at a graduation ceremony or school-sponsored event |
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