Sen. Julian Bradley

Maddy summarySB 279 creates a grant program for Wisconsin law enforcement agencies to purchase data-sharing platforms that meet specific technical requirements. The bill requires platforms to integrate real-time data from existing systems, eliminate duplicate records, provide advanced search tools, and maintain strict security with role-based access controls. Agencies receiving grants must use funds exclusively for compliant platforms that meet all 11 specified criteria, including secure hosting, scalability, and compatibility with current identity management systems. Grants are available only until June 30, 2027, and directly affect local and state law enforcement agencies seeking to upgrade their data infrastructure.

Maddy summarySB 124 creates a state board to organize, promote, and host a Wisconsin nuclear power summit. The board, including a member appointed by the public service commission chair, would direct state funds for the summit and receive administrative support from a state corporation (such as meeting coordination, public records compliance, and event logistics). This bill does not change nuclear power regulations or affect businesses; it solely establishes the framework for hosting a single summit event. The bill was enacted as 2025 Wisconsin Act 11 after receiving gubernatorial approval.

Maddy summarySB 125 requires the state to conduct a study on nuclear power and fusion energy siting, including reviewing approval timelines for small modular reactor projects. It mandates the state commission to engage with federal regulators to identify ways to streamline both federal and state permitting processes for advanced nuclear reactors. The bill also sets a new 19th-day deadline for final decisions on certain utility certificate applications (previously 13th), and directs the commission to assess methods for speeding up approvals for large nuclear facilities. This bill directly affects developers of nuclear and fusion energy projects seeking state permits and approvals.

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 summarySJR 2 proposes a constitutional amendment that would require all qualified voters to present valid photographic identification to cast a ballot in any election. This identification must be issued by the state, federal government, a federally recognized American Indian tribe, or a college or university. The bill allows the legislature to specify acceptable forms of identification and establish exceptions to this requirement. Voters unable to present valid ID on election day would be permitted to cast a provisional ballot, which would only be counted if they present valid identification at a later time. If agreed to by the legislature on this second consideration, the proposed amendment will be submitted to the people for ratification.

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits Wisconsin state agencies and local governments from restricting utility connections based on the type or source of energy, such as natural gas versus renewable sources. It also forbids these entities from discriminating against public utilities or retailers that provide specific energy services to consumers. While the law limits regulatory barriers, it explicitly preserves the government's ability to manage its own utilities, reduce emissions through its own operations, and purchase renewable energy.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows circuit judges to issue criminal complaints when a district attorney refuses to do so, specifically in cases where the accused claims self-defense. Under the new rules, a judge can only proceed with a hearing if there is new evidence suggesting the person did not act in self-defense, as the law currently protects individuals who defend themselves or others. If the judge determines a crime was committed despite the self-defense claim, they can subpoena witnesses and review police reports to decide whether to file charges. The district attorney must provide all relevant investigation records and explain their reasons for refusing to issue charges if the judge requests them.

Maddy summaryThis bill mandates that all teacher preparation programs in Wisconsin require students to complete student teaching for at least one but no more than four full semesters before they can obtain a teaching license. It requires the state to track and report licensure exam passage rates separately for students who completed one semester, more than one semester, or the full duration of student teaching. Additionally, the bill establishes a new teacher apprenticeship program for students in qualifying programs and grants the state superintendent the authority to create rules governing this apprenticeship, including supervision requirements and registration processes.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires the Wisconsin Elections Commission to verify the U.S. citizenship status of individuals on the voter registration list by accessing data from the Department of Transportation. Under the new rules, the commission must check this information immediately whenever someone registers to vote or updates their registration details. Additionally, the bill mandates that driver's licenses and identification cards issued to non-citizens must display a clear statement such as "Not valid for voting purposes" to indicate they cannot be used for voter identification. These changes directly affect the state's election administration processes and the design of identification documents issued to residents.