Sen. Melissa Ratcliff

Maddy summarySB 340 creates a dedicated $2 million annual appropriation for stipend payments to school social worker interns in Wisconsin public schools. It directly affects graduate students enrolled in school social work licensure programs who are placed as interns in public schools under school board governance. The bill establishes that the Department of Public Instruction must provide these stipends starting in the 2026-27 school year, using funds allocated under the new statutory section 20.255(3)(cm). This policy change formalizes funding for intern stipends without altering eligibility requirements for the program.

Maddy summarySB 344 creates a refundable income tax credit of up to $200 per dependent for bicycle (including electric bicycle) purchases by low-income residents. It directly affects families with dependents whose income does not exceed 200% of the federal poverty line, allowing them to claim the credit against their state income tax or receive a cash payment if the credit exceeds their tax liability. Key provisions require claimants to submit purchase documentation, restrict eligibility to full-year residents, and cap the credit at $200 per dependent annually. The credit applies to taxable years beginning after December 31, 2024, and is funded through a new appropriation.

Maddy summarySB 345 requires drivers to stop for pedestrians, cyclists, e-scooter riders, and personal delivery devices (like delivery robots) who have begun crossing at intersections with traffic signals or crosswalks. It clarifies that vehicles must remain stopped until these road users complete crossing, applying to both marked and unmarked crosswalks. The bill specifically amends traffic statutes to include new mobility devices and reinforces existing rules about yielding at signalized intersections. This directly affects drivers operating vehicles at intersections and crosswalks, particularly during green pedestrian signals.

Maddy summarySB 265 requires Wisconsin state parks to waive all daily admission fees and related charges on April 22 each year to honor Earth Day and its founder, Gaylord Nelson. This policy change directly affects all visitors to state parks on April 22, eliminating the cost of entry for that specific day. The bill creates a new statutory provision (27.01(9)(b)) that automatically applies the fee waiver without requiring additional action. The change affects the Department of Natural Resources, which must implement the waiver for all state parks under its management.

Maddy summarySJR 75 is a symbolic resolution recognizing June 2025 as Black Music Month in Wisconsin. It honors the historical and cultural contributions of Black musicians to American music genres and society, citing figures like Beyoncé, B.B. King, and Quincy Jones. The resolution has no binding effect or policy changes - it solely serves as a ceremonial acknowledgment by the state legislature, with no direct impact on individuals or funding. It was introduced in July 2025 and referred to a committee for review.

Maddy summarySJR 68 proposes to repeal Section 13 of the state constitution, which currently defines marriage as only between one man and one woman and bans legal recognition of similar status for unmarried couples. If approved by voters, this constitutional amendment would eliminate the state's constitutional ban on same-sex marriage and allow all marriages to be recognized equally under state law. The bill directly affects all state residents by removing a legal barrier to marriage equality for same-sex couples. The amendment must be submitted to voters in the next general election following a three-month publication period, as required by the proposed process.

Maddy summarySB 247 standardizes rules for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) - secondary homes on the same lot as a primary residence - across cities, towns, and homeowners' associations in Wisconsin. It requires municipalities to allow at least one ADU per eligible parcel "by right" (without special permits), limits ADU size to 75% of the main home's square footage, and bans extra fees, discriminatory design rules, additional parking requirements, or separate utility connections for ADUs. The bill also voids private deed restrictions or HOA rules that block ADUs and prohibits associations from restricting ADUs except for public health/safety reasons. This directly affects homeowners, local governments, and community associations by removing barriers to building ADUs on single-family lots.

Maddy summarySJR 77 is a ceremonial resolution honoring the late Wisconsin Assembly Representative Thomas A. Hauke, who served from 1972 to 1992. The resolution formally recognizes his 20-year legislative career, including his role as majority leader, and his commitment to bipartisanship. It expresses the Wisconsin Legislature's condolences to his family and acknowledges his public service, education, and personal life. As a commemorative resolution, it has no policy impact and solely serves to memorialize his contributions.

Maddy summarySJR 76 is a commemorative resolution honoring the late Wisconsin State Senator Bruce S. Peloquin, who died in October 2024. The resolution formally recognizes his 34 years of public service, including his time in the Wisconsin Assembly (1965-1971) and Senate (1971-1979), and highlights his legislative work on child abuse laws, special education, and school funding. It does not create new laws or policies but serves as a formal tribute from the Wisconsin Legislature to his life and career. The resolution was introduced in July 2025 and referred to the Senate Organization Committee.

Maddy summarySB 324 prohibits mental health providers from offering conversion therapy to individuals under 18 years old. The bill defines conversion therapy as any attempt to change a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity, while exempting counseling supporting gender transition, providing acceptance/support, or addressing unsafe behaviors without intent to change orientation/identity. Violations could result in disciplinary actions against providers, including license suspension or revocation by state licensing boards. The law applies to licensed psychologists, counselors, social workers, and other mental health professionals covered under state licensing statutes.