Transportation

SB 184 would prevent Wisconsin state agencies and local governments from restricting the use or sale of motor vehicles or other devices based on their energy source (such as gasoline, electricity, or hydrogen). It specifically prohibits rules that ban or limit vehicles/devices due to their power source, though government fleets may still select energy types for their own purchases. The law would apply to all state and local regulations, including those governing vehicle access, sales, or device usage. This bill aimed to remove barriers for alternative-energy vehicles in public policy contexts.

AB 619 creates a $150 million grant program to fund aviation biofuel manufacturing projects in Wisconsin, funded through state public debt issuance. The bill requires grantees to use facilities exclusively for aviation biofuel production (with limited exceptions for other biofuels if 80% of output is aviation fuel), source 80% of biomass locally, and invest at least $1.5 billion in aviation biofuel manufacturing within five years. It directly affects companies building such facilities and the Department of Natural Resources, which administers the grants. The program aims to support the state's forest products industry and create jobs, with strict repayment terms if grantees fail to meet requirements.

SB 825 streamlines environmental review processes for major highway projects by establishing clearer timelines and requirements. It defines "categorical exclusion" (avoiding full environmental reviews for standard projects) and requires the transportation department to submit a report to the commission before construction begins, including proof that financing is secured to start work within 6 years of project approval. The bill directly affects highway projects listed under Section 84.013(3) and those described in Section 84.013(1)(a)2m., requiring project reports to include approved environmental documentation and a financing plan. These changes aim to accelerate project timelines while ensuring compliance with federal environmental review standards.