Sen. Kristin Dassler-Alfheim

Maddy summarySB 356 requires the state department to partner with healthcare providers (including obstetricians/gynecologists) and community health centers to educate women about perimenopause and menopause symptoms, management, and related issues. The bill mandates creation of informational materials covering symptoms, treatments, biological processes, when to consult a provider, and communication strategies for family/friends. These materials - available electronically and physically - will be distributed through healthcare providers to women identified as experiencing or nearing perimenopause or menopause. The law directly affects women navigating these health transitions by providing standardized, accessible education resources.

Maddy summarySJR 101 is a symbolic resolution declaring November 2025 as Veteran Mental Health and Suicide Awareness Month in Wisconsin. It highlights Wisconsin's veteran suicide statistics (134 deaths in 2023, accounting for 15% of state adult suicides) and aims to raise awareness about mental health challenges veterans face during civilian transitions. The resolution does not create new programs or funding but encourages the state to recognize veterans' service and promote existing resources like the Veterans Crisis Line. It directly affects Wisconsin veterans by drawing attention to their mental health needs through official state recognition.

Maddy summarySB 476 modifies a state workforce home loan program to set maximum home purchase prices by county, based on annual data from the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development. It prohibits fees on these loans and requires qualified organizations (like approved lenders) to verify applicant eligibility using state-provided forms. The bill directly affects low-to-moderate income homebuyers seeking affordable mortgages through this program. Key changes include adding county-specific price limits to underwriting guidelines and requiring the state authority to distribute loan funds electronically. The bill is pending final passage after committee approval.

Maddy summarySB 470 increases the maximum court cost fee in municipal court actions from $38 to $48 per case, applying to most matters like defaults, guilty pleas, or contested trials. It excludes specific violations, such as financial responsibility cases under section 344.62(2). The bill requires that $5 of each collected fee be paid monthly to the general fund, with the remainder retained by the municipality. This change directly affects municipal courts and residents facing court costs in local proceedings. The bill does not alter eligibility for fee waivers or other court procedures.

Maddy summarySB 373 limits health insurance plans' use of prior authorization for physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and chiropractic care. It prohibits requiring prior approval for the first 12 visits per condition (or 90 days for chronic pain management at up to twice weekly visits) and mandates equivalent copays to primary care. Insurance plans must explain coverage denials in plain language and decide on reauthorizations within 3 business days (or approval is automatic). This directly affects health insurance plans and patients seeking these specific therapies in the state.

Maddy summarySB 409 updates traffic laws to require drivers to exercise caution when approaching stopped emergency or roadside service vehicles, or disabled vehicles (defined as vehicles showing warning lights, flares, or attended by people). Drivers must either safely change lanes away from the stopped vehicle if possible, or slow down and proceed at a reduced speed until clear. The law applies to all drivers approaching these stopped vehicles within 12 feet of a roadway. It creates clear, specific actions for drivers to improve safety around roadside stops without changing existing penalties.

Maddy summarySJR 87 is a resolution by the Wisconsin Legislature to commemorate the U.S. Marine Corps' 250th anniversary on November 10, 2025, marking the date the Continental Congress authorized its founding in 1775. It recognizes the Corps' historical service and acknowledges Marines training at Fort McCoy in Wisconsin, including their role in activities like the Cold Weather Operations Course. The resolution expresses legislative appreciation but does not create new laws, funding, or legal obligations. It is a symbolic gesture celebrating military heritage without imposing concrete policy changes.

Maddy summarySB 288 allows the lead vehicle in a funeral procession, or all vehicles in a procession, to use flashing amber or purple lights during the procession. It requires that if any vehicle in the procession uses such lights, all vehicles must be equipped with them. This change directly affects funeral home operators and drivers participating in funeral processions by standardizing lighting rules for safety and visibility.

Maddy summarySB 286 is a technical amendment to update the reference year in a bill related to workforce housing and childcare awards under the business development tax credit, changing "2025" to "2026" in the text. It does not create new policy or affect any specific entities, as it only corrects a calendar year reference in the bill's language. This is a procedural change to align the bill with the current legislative session year. No substantive policy changes or new provisions are introduced by this amendment.

Maddy summarySB 638 raises the maximum annual compensation limit for volunteer firefighters, EMTs, and emergency responders who hold elected local offices. It increases the cap to $35,000 for cities/villages/towns with 5,000 or fewer residents and $25,000 for larger communities. This change allows more emergency service workers to serve in local government while receiving compensation for their roles, aligning with existing wage provisions for elected officials.