Sen. Van Wanggaard

Maddy summarySB 51 restricts the flags that can be flown on state and local government properties. It mandates that only the U.S. flag, the state flag, the official POW/MIA flag, and the flags of U.S. military branches may be displayed on state agency buildings, state authorities, and local government facilities (like city halls or county offices), unless a 3/4 vote of the local governing body or a legislative joint resolution allows exceptions. The bill repeals an existing administrative rule and takes effect January 1, 2027, applying to all state-owned or occupied facilities. This directly affects state agencies, local governments (cities, towns, counties), and their flag display practices.

Maddy summarySB 6 modifies vehicle impoundment rules for traffic offenses by requiring law enforcement to check if an impounded vehicle was reported stolen before returning it to the owner. If stolen, the vehicle must be returned without fees, and if unclaimed for over 90 days, it may be disposed of like an abandoned vehicle. The bill directly affects law enforcement agencies handling impoundments and vehicle owners whose vehicles were used in traffic offenses. Key provisions mandate theft verification, waive fees for stolen vehicles, and clarify disposal procedures after 90 days. This changes administrative processes but does not alter the underlying traffic offenses or penalties.

Maddy summarySenate Bill 209 limits the legal liability for manufacturers, distributors, sellers, installers, and owners of traffic control devices. Under this bill, these entities are not liable for damages if a device complies with the specifications outlined in the official traffic control devices manual and operates as intended. This protection covers various claims, including personal injury, property damage, negligence, and breach of warranty. However, the liability limitation does not apply if there is clear evidence that the device failed to meet specifications or operate as intended when the damage occurred. The bill also establishes a rebuttable presumption of compliance if the device was designed and installed according to manual standards or with authorized deviations.

Maddy summarySenate Bill 220 modifies the residency requirements for individuals who collect signatures for political documents. For most candidate nomination papers, the bill expands eligibility, allowing U.S. citizens aged 18 or older to serve as circulators, even if they are not registered voters of the state, provided they would otherwise be eligible to vote. However, for recall petitions, the bill specifically requires circulators to be a qualified elector (registered voter) of the state. These changes directly affect individuals who gather signatures to support candidates or initiate recall efforts.

Maddy summarySenate Bill 138 establishes a new $5,000 prostitution crime surcharge to be imposed by courts on individuals convicted of specific prostitution-related offenses. This surcharge directly affects those convicted of these crimes. The bill directs that half of the collected funds be used for treatment and services for sex-trafficking victims, while the other half supports criminal investigative operations and prosecution related to Internet crimes against children.

Maddy summarySenate Joint Resolution 46 honors the distinguished life and public service of Representative Frederick P. Kessler, recognizing his extensive career in the Wisconsin State Assembly and as a Milwaukee County judge. The resolution acknowledges his contributions to areas such as language immersion schools, redistricting reform, and civil rights, and directs that a copy be provided to his family.

Maddy summaryThis joint resolution proclaims May 2025 and May 2026 as Jewish American Heritage Months in Wisconsin. It officially recognizes the historical contributions of Jewish Americans to the state and nation's civic, social, economic, and cultural life.

Maddy summarySB 39 proposes the establishment of a Palliative Care Council. This council would likely address matters related to palliative care services, which aim to provide comfort and support for patients with serious illnesses. An amendment to the bill details the required composition of the council's physician members. Specifically, it mandates that five physicians serve on the council, including two palliative care physicians (one specializing in pediatric palliative care) and two primary care physicians.

Maddy summarySenate Bill 133 makes specific adjustments to the rules for Tax Incremental District (TID) Number 9 in the village of DeForest. It extends the maximum lifespan and the period for allocating tax increments for this particular district to 30 years. The bill also provides an exemption for TID Number 9 from certain general tax incremental financing regulations. Additionally, it grants the village of DeForest a one-time exception from a 12% limit on the total value of taxable property that can be included in TIF districts, specifically for an amendment to TID Number 9's project plan.

Maddy summarySJR 13 is a ceremonial resolution honoring Patrick Fuller, former Wisconsin Assembly Chief Clerk, who passed away in January 2025. It recognizes his 25-year U.S. military career (including service in the Marines and Army, with combat deployments) and his 20-year tenure managing Assembly operations across multiple legislative sessions. The resolution, introduced by numerous legislators, formally expresses the legislature's condolences to his family and extends tribute to his public service. As a commemorative resolution, it does not create new laws or policies but serves as a formal acknowledgment of his contributions.