Sen. Bob Wirch

Maddy summarySB 642 creates a program providing grants to residential landlords for fire safety upgrades, including installing sprinklers and fire extinguishers in rental properties. Landlords can receive grants covering up to 50% of eligible costs, with a total program cap of $10 million. Grants are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, and the Department of Insurance will establish eligibility rules and application procedures. The $10 million funding is allocated from a new budget appropriation for the 2025-26 fiscal year.

Maddy summarySB 574 creates a state funding mechanism to maintain Wisconsin's WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) program benefits during federal government shutdowns. It requires the Department of Health Services to continue providing WIC benefits at pre-shutdown levels if federal funding lapses, specifically referencing the October 1, 2025 funding gap. The bill ensures uninterrupted access to nutrition support for low-income pregnant women, new mothers, infants, and young children who rely on WIC. This temporary provision expires on October 1, 2026, and is repealed upon federal funding restoration. The measure directly affects WIC participants and state budgeting during federal funding interruptions.

Maddy summaryThis bill exempts minor league baseball players covered by collective bargaining agreements from Wisconsin's minimum wage, overtime pay, and recordkeeping requirements. Specifically, it creates new statute 103.023 and amends statutes 104.01(2)(b)6 and 104.09 to remove these labor protections for players whose contracts are governed by a collective bargaining agreement that already specifies wages and working conditions. The exemption applies only to players under such agreements and does not affect other workers. Employers are no longer required to track hours or pay overtime for these exempt players. This change directly affects minor league baseball players in Wisconsin whose contracts include collective bargaining terms.

Maddy summarySB 23 extends Medicaid eligibility for postpartum women from 60 days to 365 days (one year) after pregnancy, directly affecting pregnant and postpartum women enrolled in the Medical Assistance program. The bill modifies eligibility rules to ensure coverage continues without regard to income changes during this extended period. It also adds a provision allowing women with family income above 300% of the poverty line to qualify if medical expenses for family members are covered, extending this eligibility to all family members. The bill requires federal approval for the 365-day extension to take effect.

Maddy summarySJR 92 is a ceremonial resolution that directs the Wisconsin Legislature to officially proclaim October 2025 as "Filipino American History Month" within the state. It recognizes the historical contributions of Filipino Americans, including their early settlements in the U.S., their growth in Wisconsin (over 22,000 residents), and their roles in fields like healthcare, education, and military service. The resolution does not create new laws or funding but formally acknowledges this history to promote awareness and appreciation. It aligns with the national observance established in 1991 and follows Wisconsin's tradition of recognizing cultural heritage months.

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 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 summarySJR 29 is a joint resolution that officially designates April 2025 and April 2026 as Parkinson’s Disease Awareness Months in Wisconsin. This resolution aims to raise public awareness about Parkinson's disease, its impact, and the need for ongoing research, education, and community support.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a refundable income tax credit for Wisconsin residents who pay property taxes or rent that includes property taxes, aiming to help lower-income households offset these costs. Eligible individuals must have a household income under $125,000 and cannot be claimed as a dependent by another taxpayer, with specific exclusions for part-year residents and those with property assessed over $1 million. The credit amount varies based on income levels and the year the tax year begins, ranging from 10% to 40% of the portion of taxes that exceed 4% of household income. If the calculated credit exceeds the taxes owed, the remaining amount is paid directly to the claimant as a refund. The legislation also establishes an appropriation to fund these payments and integrates this new credit into the state's existing list of allowable tax credits.