Rep. Ben DeSmidt

Maddy summaryAB 508 repeals two sections of state law (108.04 (2) (h) and 108.04 (12) (f)) that previously prevented Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) recipients from receiving unemployment insurance benefits at the same time. This bill directly affects individuals who qualify for SSDI but are currently unemployed and seeking unemployment benefits. The key provision removes the legal barrier forcing these individuals to choose between disability and unemployment benefits. The change would allow them to receive both types of benefits simultaneously, effective for weeks of unemployment beginning after the bill's publication.

Maddy summaryAB 571 creates a statewide Parkinson’s disease registry to collect and track health data on Parkinson’s disease and related conditions (like multiple system atrophy). Health care providers must report anonymized patient data - including diagnosis, treatment, outcomes, and demographics - to the University of Wisconsin-Madison for storage and analysis. The registry will generate annual public reports on disease incidence, prevalence, and trends via a dedicated website, with strict privacy safeguards (e.g., coded data, IRB-approved research access). This affects health care facilities, providers, and patients, but does not impose new costs or treatment requirements.

Maddy summaryAB 677 creates a new criminal offense for "grooming a child for sexual activity," defined as manipulating a child to facilitate sexual abuse. This law directly affects individuals convicted of such grooming behavior, adding it as a punishable offense under Wisconsin statutes like 948.02 (sexual exploitation of a child) and 948.072 (grooming). Key provisions amend multiple laws to include grooming as a disqualifying factor for home placements, licensing for childcare, and reporting requirements, while defining it as a "serious crime" for entities serving minors. The bill does not change existing penalties for actual sexual abuse but establishes grooming itself as a distinct criminal violation with specific legal consequences.

Maddy summaryAJR 95 designates October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Wisconsin. This symbolic resolution does not create new laws or funding but formally recognizes the importance of addressing domestic violence. It aims to honor survivors, remember those lost to domestic violence, and acknowledge the work of advocates and service providers across the state. The bill passed unanimously and is now official, aligning Wisconsin with national observances to promote awareness.

Maddy summaryAJR 91 is a ceremonial joint resolution recognizing the U.S. Navy's 250th birthday on October 13, 2025, marking the anniversary of the Continental Congress vote to establish the Navy on October 13, 1775. It expresses the Wisconsin Legislature's appreciation for the Navy's historical service and its legacy of defending U.S. freedoms, values, and interests over 250 years. The resolution has no binding effect or policy changes; it solely serves to honor the Navy's history and its connections to Wisconsin through shipbuilding, named vessels, and military contributions.

Maddy summaryAJR 85 is a ceremonial joint resolution that formally congratulates the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater Baseball Team for winning the 2025 NCAA Division III National Championship. It specifically recognizes their championship victory, including their record 74 runs scored in the tournament and 49-6 season record. The resolution directly affects the team, its coaching staff, and athletic department by offering legislative recognition of their achievement. This is a symbolic gesture with no policy changes or funding implications, as it merely expresses the legislature's commendation.

Maddy summaryAJR 92 is a ceremonial resolution recognizing the U.S. Marine Corps' 250th birthday on November 10, 2025. It formally celebrates the Marine Corps' history, beginning with its founding by the Continental Congress on November 10, 1775, and acknowledges its ongoing service, including active-duty personnel and training at Fort McCoy in Wisconsin. The resolution contains no new policies, funding, or legal requirements - it solely expresses the Wisconsin Legislature's symbolic appreciation for the Marine Corps' 250 years of service. As a procedural resolution, it does not directly affect any individuals or change existing laws.

Maddy summaryAB 302 amends Wisconsin statute 347.25(3) to allow funeral procession vehicles to use flashing amber or purple lights exclusively during processions. The law permits the lead vehicle in a procession to display such lights, or requires all vehicles in the procession to have them if any vehicle uses them. This change directly affects funeral homes, drivers, and vehicles participating in formal funeral processions by standardizing permissible lighting for visibility and safety during these events.

Maddy summaryAB 409 makes it illegal to pass a stopped vehicle on or near a highway without exercising caution, creating a new traffic violation. It directly affects drivers who pass stopped vehicles, such as those involved in accidents or breakdowns, particularly near emergency or maintenance crews. The key provision establishes a specific penalty (fines or citations) for violating this rule, aiming to improve safety in highway stoppages. This bill updates traffic regulations to address unsafe passing behavior near stationary vehicles.

Maddy summaryAJR 99 is a symbolic resolution recognizing October 14, 2025, as "First Responders Appreciation Day" in Wisconsin. It does not create new laws or policies but formally honors all professional and volunteer first responders, including police, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel. The resolution acknowledges their daily risks and service to the public, specifically noting Wisconsin's over 4,800 career firefighters, 20,600 volunteer firefighters, 14,700 law enforcement officers, and 17,426 EMS personnel. This is a non-binding gesture of appreciation with no direct impact on legislation or funding.