Rep. Lori Palmeri

Maddy summaryAB 64 creates a state income tax subtraction for eligible K-12 teachers who pay out-of-pocket for classroom supplies and materials. It allows teachers to subtract up to $300 annually from their taxable income for expenses covered under federal tax code (26 USC 62(a)(2)(D)), using the federal definition of "eligible educator." This provision directly affects teachers who incur these costs, reducing their state tax burden without requiring them to itemize deductions. The bill mirrors a federal tax break but applies specifically to Wisconsin's income tax system. The law would take effect for tax years beginning after December 31, 2024.

Maddy summaryAB 414 helps sexual assault victims by creating legal protection for people who assist them (like friends or advocates) from being prosecuted for minor crimes committed while helping. It also extends the time limit for prosecuting second-degree sexual assault cases, giving victims more time to report crimes. Additionally, the bill changes rules for evictions, making it harder for landlords to remove tenants who are sexual assault victims from rental housing. These changes directly affect sexual assault victims, those who support them, and landlords in residential housing situations.

Maddy summaryAB 588 establishes a statutory right to contraception in Wisconsin, protecting patients' access to FDA-approved contraceptive methods and providers' ability to offer them. The bill prohibits state or local governments from implementing laws that restrict access to FDA-approved contraceptives (like pills, IUDs, or condoms), single out contraceptive services, or make it harder to obtain them. It allows individuals, providers, or the Attorney General to sue if this right is violated, with courts able to block restrictive policies and award legal fees. The law specifically does not affect insurance coverage requirements for contraception. It directly affects all patients seeking contraception and healthcare providers offering these services.

Maddy summaryThis bill (AJR 113) proposes that Wisconsin officially recognize the second Monday in October as "Indigenous Peoples Day" each year. It does not create new laws or programs but formally acknowledges the historical and ongoing presence of Wisconsin's 11 federally recognized tribes and their contributions to the state. The resolution aims to promote appreciation, reconciliation, and partnership with Indigenous communities through this annual observance. As a symbolic gesture, it directly affects all Wisconsinites by encouraging reflection on Indigenous history and contributions.

Maddy summaryAB 636 requires private postsecondary schools (proprietary schools) in Wisconsin to include veteran enrollment data in their existing quarterly reports to the state department. These schools must report how many veterans are enrolled, alongside other details like total enrollment, graduates, and employment rates. The bill amends current reporting rules to specifically add veteran enrollment as a required data point, without creating new funding or penalties. This affects all private colleges operating in Wisconsin that are subject to state approval and reporting requirements.

Maddy summaryAB 498 provides $1 million in biennial funding to help licensed child care centers purchase and maintain automated external defibrillators (AEDs). The bill creates a grant program administered by the Department of Children and Families, allowing centers to apply for funding to cover AED costs. To qualify, centers must contribute at least 33% of the grant amount in matching funds. This policy directly affects licensed child care centers by making AEDs more accessible for emergency cardiac care.

Maddy summaryAB 386 creates a $30 million agricultural purchase program to fund grants for organizations buying food made or grown in the state. It directly affects nonprofit food banks, pantries, and local food distributors that provide food assistance, allowing them to use these grants to purchase state-grown products. The program is administered by the Department of Agriculture, which will also add two new staff positions (program specialist and grants specialist) funded by this appropriation. The bill establishes a continuing appropriation under statute 20.115 and outlines specific grant eligibility under new statute 93.62.

Maddy summaryAB 290 creates a special vehicle registration plate titled "Protect Pollinators" with a voluntary $25 annual or $50 biennial fee for vehicle owners who choose it. All fees collected beyond $23,700 (or production costs, whichever is less) are deposited into the conservation fund to support pollinator protection programs. The plate must display "Protect Pollinators" and cover the entire plate, as specified in the bill. This directly affects Wisconsin vehicle owners who select this plate option, directing funds toward conservation efforts.

Maddy summaryAB 524 raises the legal age for purchasing, selling, or possessing cigarettes, nicotine products, tobacco products, and electronic vaping devices from 18 to 21 years old. The bill prohibits retailers, vendors, and manufacturers from selling these products to anyone under 21, with limited exceptions for parental accompaniment or specific retail settings. It requires stores to display clear signage about the age restriction and mandates training for employees handling these products. The law applies directly to businesses selling tobacco, nicotine, or vaping products across the state, with penalties including fines for violations.

Maddy summaryAJR 110 is a symbolic resolution passed by the Wisconsin Legislature condemning Russia's actions in Ukraine, specifically targeting the abduction and forcible transfer of Ukrainian children to Russia. It declares these actions violate the Genocide Convention and constitute genocide, citing Russia's systematic efforts to separate children from families, facilitate forced adoptions, and re-educate them in occupied territories. The resolution formally holds the Russian government responsible for these acts, which it states aim to destroy Ukraine's cultural identity and future generations. As a joint resolution (not a law), it has no legal effect but serves as a formal statement of condemnation.