Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB780

Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/17/25
• Refer: 12/17/25
• Failed: 3/23/26

Caption

Repealing the dry cleaner environmental response program, creating the revitalize Wisconsin program, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

Impact

The passage of AB780 will lead to the elimination of prior funding mechanisms associated with the dry cleaner environmental response program. The new Revitalize Wisconsin program allocates resources from the environmental fund to aid various entities, provided they did not cause the pollution themselves. This is a pivotal change designed to enhance cooperation among local governments and businesses, as it encourages cleanup efforts without placing liability on parties that have not contributed to the pollution.

Summary

Assembly Bill 780 proposes to repeal the existing dry cleaner environmental response program and establish the Revitalize Wisconsin program, which will be administered by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The new program aims to provide financial aid through grants or direct services to local governments, private parties, and dry cleaning operations to mitigate the impact of environmental pollution. This marks a significant shift in how the state supports environmental cleanup, focusing on a broader range of sites, including brownfields and properties affected by hazardous waste.

Contention

While the bill aims to simplify and improve financial support for environmental remediation, it is anticipated that there could be points of contention regarding eligibility for the aid. The stipulation that aid will not be awarded to entities that caused the pollution could generate debate, particularly around how this is assessed. Additionally, the requirement for applicants to possibly provide matching funds may also raise concerns regarding the accessibility of these resources, especially for small municipalities or businesses that might struggle to comply.