Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB459

Introduced
9/26/25  
Refer
9/26/25  
Report Pass
11/7/25  
Refer
11/7/25  
Engrossed
1/22/26  
Refer
1/26/26  
Enrolled
2/13/26  
Chaptered
3/27/26  

Caption

County public works notice and competitive bidding thresholds. (FE)

Impact

The passage of AB459 will amend current statutes relating to county public works and procurement protocols, thereby allowing counties to bypass certain bidding requirements when acquiring specified types of housing units. This change is intended to expedite the process of obtaining housing solutions, catering to the needs of individuals who are under supervised release, and may encounter barriers in finding stable accommodations.

Summary

Assembly Bill 459 (AB459) aims to create exceptions to the existing county contracting requirements specifically for the purchase of used mobile homes and park model homes. This legislative proposal is designed to facilitate the provision of housing for individuals placed on supervised release under specific statutes. The bill's introduction underscores the state’s commitment to addressing housing needs for vulnerable populations, particularly those transitioning from supervised environments.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding AB459 appears generally positive among legislators, reflecting a shared understanding of the necessity to support individuals in transition from supervised release into stable housing. Advocates for the bill highlight its potential to significantly improve housing accessibility for a population that often struggles to secure stable living conditions. However, discussions may include concerns regarding oversight and the quality of housing provided under these relaxed purchasing rules.

Contention

Notable points of contention could arise over the implications of reducing competitive bidding and procurement processes, with some stakeholders advocating for maintaining stringent oversight to ensure quality and accountability in public spending. Concerns may also be raised about the potential for misuse or misallocation of resources, and whether the expedited purchasing process may lead to inappropriate purchases without proper checks and balances.

Companion Bills

WI SB428

Crossfiled County public works notice and competitive bidding thresholds. (FE)

Previously Filed As

WI SB428

County public works notice and competitive bidding thresholds. (FE)

WI AB217

Local government competitive bidding thresholds. (FE)

WI SB216

Local government competitive bidding thresholds. (FE)

WI HB3417

Cities and towns; competitive bidding; council; Public Competitive Bidding Act; effective date.

WI HB490

St. Mary's County - Competitive Bidding - Threshold

WI HB3418

Public buildings and public works; Public Competitive Bidding Act of 1974; quotes; felonies; disclosures; effective date.

WI HB680

Public purchasing; increase threshold for purchases without competitive bidding.

WI HB402

Public purchasing; increase threshold for purchases without competitive bidding.

WI HB1299

Public purchasing; increase threshold for purchase without competitive bidding.

WI HB4276

Public buildings and public works; Public Competitive Bidding Act of 1974; public improvement; public construction; funds; certification; counties; effective date.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.