Us Congress Senate Bill SB1262

Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/2/25
• Refer: 4/2/25

Caption

A bill to require the Secretary of Agriculture to release a reversionary interest in certain land in the Black River State Forest in Millston, Wisconsin, and for other purposes.

Impact

The primary impact of SB1262 is the alteration of how land can be utilized within the Black River State Forest, offering a streamlined process for land exchanges. By releasing the reversionary interest, the bill allows Deli, Inc. to acquire state forest land while concurrently increasing the state's landholdings in the forest. This legislative change underscores the importance of land management and agricultural interests in state policy, potentially paving the way for further developments in land use regulations in Wisconsin.

Summary

SB1262 aims to facilitate a land exchange involving certain land in the Black River State Forest in Wisconsin. The bill requires the Secretary of Agriculture to release a reversionary interest in this land, enabling a business named Deli, Inc. to exchange some of its land with the state. This exchange is seen as mutually beneficial, as Deli, Inc. seeks to expand its operations while the state can enhance the state forest area. The legislation emphasizes cooperation between the state and private entity regarding land use improvements.

Contention

Although the bill appears straightforward, concerns may arise over the implications of releasing the reversionary interest. Critics may argue this sets a precedent for further privatization of public lands, raising issues regarding environmental protection and sustainable land management practices. Community stakeholders and environmental advocacy groups may have differing views on whether such exchanges genuinely serve public interests or primarily benefit private entities. Balancing agricultural and business interests with conservation efforts will likely be a central point of debate as the bill progresses.