The Warren Knowles-Gaylord Nelson stewardship 2000 program and a major land acquisitions program. (FE)
Impact
The bill would significantly influence state laws related to land management and environmental protections. It proposes to allocate funds specifically for the acquisition of land that has environmental significance or public value. This acquisition would extend to areas that contribute to the health of ecosystems, biodiversity, and natural habitats. The initiative reflects a growing commitment to sustainable land use policies at the state level, aligning with broader conservation goals.
Summary
AB315, also known as the Warren Knowles-Gaylord Nelson Stewardship 2000 Program, focuses on enhancing the stewardship and conservation of state lands through a major land acquisitions initiative. The bill seeks to bolster state efforts in managing and preserving vital natural resources for public enjoyment and ecological integrity. By prioritizing land conservation, this initiative aims to ensure that future generations can benefit from the environmental and recreational assets of the state.
Contention
While supporters of AB315 advocate for its potential to safeguard natural resources and enhance public access to wildlife areas, there are concerns about the implications for state budgeting and land use regulation. Detractors argue that the prioritization of land acquisition could divert funds from other crucial state services, leading to possible budget constraints. Moreover, there may be local opposition regarding how land acquisitions might affect development and property rights in certain communities.
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)
Eliminating the green tier program and the environmental compliance audit program and restricting governmental actions with regard to certain international programs and organizations. (FE)