Regulation of the Chippewa and Flambeau Improvement Company.
Impact
If enacted, SB255 would authorize the Chippewa and Flambeau Improvement Company to recover costs related to taxes, depreciation, and provide a reasonable return on capital investment. Additionally, the bill clarifies the conditions under which water power operators are assessed tolls, specifically stating that those operating for a specified minimum duration will incur charges for the entire toll period. This change is aimed at ensuring a more stable revenue stream for the company, thereby enhancing its ability to manage water resources effectively.
Summary
Senate Bill 255 aims to amend and modernize the regulatory framework governing the Chippewa and Flambeau Improvement Company, which is responsible for managing water flow and flood control in certain rivers. The bill proposes significant changes to the way tolls are levied on water power operators who benefit from the company's reservoir system. Notably, it allows these tolls to be used not only for operation and maintenance but also for the acquisition and improvement of the water management system. This represents a shift from previous regulations which prohibited such financial practices.
Contention
The amendment to existing regulations eliminates several restrictions, including those against using tolls for capital projects and limits on the funding of infrastructure improvements through negotiable bonds. This has raised concerns among stakeholders about the potential financial implications for water power operators. Critics argue that the increased financial burdens could lead to higher operational costs, which may ultimately be passed on to consumers. Supporters, however, assert that these changes are necessary for the sustainable management of water resources and will contribute to economic development in the region.
The licensing and regulation by the Department of Financial Institutions of consumer lenders, payday lenders, money transmitters, sales finance companies, collection agencies, mortgage bankers and mortgage brokers, adjustment service companies, community currency exchanges, and insurance premium finance companies; the Nationwide Multistate Licensing System and Registry; modifying and repealing rules promulgated by the Department of Financial Institutions; and granting rule-making authority. (FE)
The licensing and regulation by the Department of Financial Institutions of consumer lenders, payday lenders, money transmitters, sales finance companies, collection agencies, mortgage bankers and mortgage brokers, adjustment service companies, community currency exchanges, and insurance premium finance companies; the Nationwide Multistate Licensing System and Registry; modifying and repealing rules promulgated by the Department of Financial Institutions; and granting rule-making authority. (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)
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)
Requires DEP and owners of certain reservoirs to implement certain flood control measures; authorizes Office of Emergency Management to order lowering of reservoirs levels in response to severe weather events.
Requires DEP and owners of certain reservoirs to implement certain flood control measures; authorizes Office of Emergency Management to order lowering of reservoirs levels in response to severe weather events.
Requires DEP and owners of certain reservoirs to implement certain flood control measures; authorizes Office of Emergency Management to order lowering of reservoirs levels in response to severe weather events.
Requires DEP and owners of certain reservoirs to implement certain flood control measures; authorizes Office of Emergency Management to order lowering of reservoirs levels in response to severe weather events.