Sen. Melissa Ratcliff

Maddy summarySJR 71 is a ceremonial resolution honoring Jerry Apps for his lifelong contributions to Wisconsin's heritage. It recognizes his work as a 4-H advocate, University of Wisconsin professor, author of over 50 books on Wisconsin history and rural life (including *Wisconsin Agriculture: A History*), and recipient of awards like the 4-H Hall of Fame induction. The resolution formally expresses the legislature's appreciation for his efforts in preserving agricultural heritage and inspiring residents through writing, documentaries, and community education. As a procedural resolution, it has no policy impact or direct effect on any individuals or programs.

Maddy summarySB 422 designates a bridge in the town of Oxford, Marquette County, as the "Greg Quinn and Larry Millard Memorial Bridge." This ceremonial bill honors two individuals by naming a specific bridge after them. It has no policy provisions, funding impacts, or direct effects on residents or regulations. The bill passed unanimously and is now law.

Maddy summaryThis bill exempts eligible families of Wisconsin military members killed in action (known as "gold star families") from paying fees for special registration plates. It removes the $15 annual or $30 biennial maintenance fees, as well as the $15 reissuance fee, that typically apply to personalized plates. Families qualifying under statute §341.14(6r)(f)19m will no longer pay these costs for initial issuance or ongoing plate maintenance. The law takes effect 7 months after publication, ensuring immediate cost savings for this group.

Maddy summarySB 152 removes financial eligibility requirements for Wisconsin’s Alzheimer’s family and caregiver support program. It repeals section 46.87 (5m), which previously set income-based criteria, and amends related sections to no longer reference those financial limits. This change directly affects caregivers and family members of Alzheimer’s patients who previously faced income restrictions to access support services. The bill simplifies eligibility by eliminating income thresholds, allowing more individuals to qualify for program services regardless of household income. The law became effective after Governor approval on August 11, 2025 (Wisconsin Act 21).

Maddy summaryThis bill requires hospitals to obtain written permission from patients before performing pelvic exams for educational purposes on patients who are unconscious (e.g., under anesthesia). It directly affects hospitals, medical staff, and patients undergoing such exams during medical training. The key provision mandates that hospitals create written policies ensuring patients provide explicit, prior consent for these specific exams. The law, now Wisconsin Act 22, applies to all facilities conducting such educational procedures on unconscious individuals.

Maddy summarySJR 7 is a non-binding legislative resolution passed by Wisconsin's legislature declaring support for nuclear power and fusion energy as critical clean energy sources. It states the legislature's commitment to advancing these technologies, citing their role in providing 66.6% of Wisconsin's carbon-free electricity, powering 1.2 million homes, and supporting 650 high-paying jobs. The resolution does not create new laws or allocate funds but formally recognizes nuclear/fusion energy as essential for meeting energy demands and reducing emissions. It emphasizes Wisconsin's existing nuclear infrastructure (including two operating reactors) and academic resources as foundations for future growth in this sector.

Maddy summarySenate Bill 24 creates specific exceptions for Tax Incremental District Number 6 in the city of Middleton. It exempts this particular district from state-mandated limitations on the total value of taxable property that can be included within it. Additionally, the bill removes a specific statutory lifespan limit for this same district. The exemption for the property value limit applies if the district is established by June 1, 2025.

Maddy summarySJR 32 designates the first full week in May as Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week. This resolution aims to raise awareness about Tardive Dyskinesia (TD), a condition causing involuntary movements often linked to antipsychotic medication use, and to encourage early detection and intervention for individuals prescribed these medications.

Maddy summarySenate Joint Resolution 23 proclaims the week of April 28 to May 2, 2025, as School Nutrition Professionals Appreciation Week in Wisconsin. This resolution recognizes the significant contributions of school nutrition professionals to the health and well-being of students across the state.

Maddy summarySJR 22 designates April 2025 and April 2026 as Testicular Cancer Awareness Month in Wisconsin. This resolution aims to raise awareness about testicular cancer, which is common among younger men, to encourage early detection and healthy habits.