Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB197

Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/15/25
• Refer: 4/15/25

Caption

A levy limit exemption for regional emergency medical systems and eligibility for the expenditure restraint incentive program. (FE)

Impact

The bill will directly affect local government finance, as it creates new avenues for funding emergency medical services that are not subject to previous levy constraints. By allowing municipalities to exempt certain levies from limitations, local governments will have more resources to enhance or maintain their emergency medical services, thereby potentially leading to improved health outcomes for residents. However, this flexibility may also place varying financial pressures on municipal budgets and taxation in the affected areas, depending on the extent of their participation in such regional services.

Summary

Assembly Bill 197 introduces a significant change to local levy limits by providing an exemption for costs associated with regional emergency medical services. This legislation allows cities, towns, and counties to levy additional amounts for regional emergency medical services without being constrained by existing local levy limits. Specifically, it applies to those political subdivisions participating in joint emergency services or intergovernmental agreements that meet specific criteria, such as covering a service area of at least 232 square miles or comprising at least eight municipalities. This change is positioned to improve the capacity for emergency medical services across different jurisdictions.

Contention

While the bill aims to bolster emergency medical services, it is likely to elicit mixed reactions from different stakeholders. Proponents argue that this measure is crucial for enhancing public safety by ensuring that emergency services can adequately respond to the needs of larger regional populations without financial hindrance. Critics may raise concerns about how this exemption could lead to unequal taxation burdens or challenges in fiscal management, especially if municipalities are incentivized to increase their levies beyond what may be fiscally responsible. Balance in regional funding and service quality will be critical as this legislation moves forward.