If enacted, SB44 would significantly change the landscape of local ordinances concerning urban farming practices in Wisconsin. Local governmental units, such as towns and cities, would retain the authority to implement regulations regarding the permitting process and cleanliness standards, essentially balancing homeowners' rights to keep fowl with neighbors' concerns about potential nuisances. However, these local entities would not have the power to prohibit the keeping of fowl, thereby enhancing residents' rights to engage in small-scale farming within their residential zones.
Summary
Senate Bill 44 seeks to standardize regulations across political subdivisions in Wisconsin regarding the keeping of certain fowl, specifically chickens and quail. The bill allows property owners and certain lessors to keep up to four fowl on residentially zoned properties while simultaneously preventing local governments from outright prohibiting such practices. This legislative measure aims to promote urban agriculture and support local food systems by enabling residents to raise fowl in their backyards, contributing to food self-sufficiency and sustainability initiatives.
Contention
The bill is likely to generate discussions regarding the balance between personal freedom and public health concerns. Supporters argue that being able to keep a small number of chickens or quail has significant benefits, including providing fresh eggs, which aligns with sustainable living practices. Opponents may express fears around issues such as noise from roosters, possible unsanitary conditions, or unwanted wildlife attracted by fowl. The proposal's viability will likely depend on how well it addresses these concerns while promoting urban agriculture.
County and municipal aid; imposing a city sales tax and an additional county sales tax to pay the unfunded actuarial accrued liability of city and county retirement systems; requiring newly hired city and county employees of certain city agencies and counties to be enrolled in the Wisconsin Retirement System; fire and police commissions of first class cities; eliminating the personal property tax; reporting certain crimes and other incidents that occur on school property or school transportation; advisory referenda; local health officers; local public protection services; exceptions to local levy limits; local regulation of certain quarry operations; emergency services; local approval of projects and activities under the Warren Knowles-Gaylord Nelson Stewardship 2000 Program; requiring a referendum; and granting rule-making authority. (FE)
Requiring local governments to designate an individual for consultation required under a federal program regarding refugee resettlement and assistance. (FE)
Requiring local governments to designate an individual for consultation required under a federal program regarding refugee resettlement and assistance. (FE)
County and municipal aid; imposing a city sales tax and an additional county sales tax to pay the unfunded actuarial accrued liability of city and county retirement systems; requiring newly hired city and county employees of certain city agencies and counties to be enrolled in the Wisconsin Retirement System; fire and police commissions of first class cities; eliminating the personal property tax; reporting certain crimes and other incidents that occur on school property or school transportation; advisory referenda; local health officers; local public protection services; exceptions to local levy limits; local regulation of certain quarry operations; emergency services; local approval of projects and activities under the Warren Knowles-Gaylord Nelson Stewardship 2000 Program; requiring a referendum; and granting rule-making authority. (FE)