Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB1038

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/1/24
• Refer: 2/1/24
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

The wildlife damage abatement program and the wildlife damage claim program. (FE)

Impact

The legislation increases the maximum compensation for wildlife damage claims from $10,000 to $25,000, reflecting a rise in the cost of damages that can be claimed. Additionally, the threshold for 100% claims has been raised from $5,250 to $5,500, allowing for more substantial compensation for those affected. This increase in claim limits is intended to offer better financial support to farmers and landowners dealing with wildlife damage, particularly from bears.

Summary

Assembly Bill 1038 introduces significant reforms to Wisconsin's wildlife damage abatement program and claim processes. The bill stipulates that the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will directly administer these programs, relieving counties of their previous administrative roles, effective January 1, 2025. This change is aimed at streamlining operations and providing more direct assistance to those affected by wildlife damage, particularly targeting damages caused by bears and other wildlife.

Conclusion

Overall, AB1038 aims to enhance wildlife management and damage mitigation processes in Wisconsin, responding to growing concerns over agricultural losses due to wildlife. However, the shifts in administrative responsibility and eligibility criteria are provoking discussions among stakeholders, particularly regarding the balance between state management and local autonomy in handling wildlife-related issues.

Contention

A notable point of contention surrounding AB1038 is the requirement that individuals must have crop insurance to be eligible for wildlife damage claims related to bear damage. This could limit the number of claimants, particularly for small farmers who may not afford comprehensive insurance. Moreover, the bill introduces an internet-based registration system for bear hunting, which alters how landowners can manage access to their land for hunters, raising concerns about local control over hunting practices.