Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

Wisconsin Senate Bill SB175

Introduced
4/3/25  
Refer
4/3/25  

Caption

Local building permit fees for certain improvements of residences of disabled veterans. (FE)

Impact

The enactment of SB175 will significantly impact local government regulations on building permits for veterans. The bill establishes a clear framework for fee reductions, compelling municipalities to align with the new state requirement. This could lead to a more standardized approach across the state, ensuring that service members and veterans can access affordable modifications to their living environments without excessive financial obstacles. Furthermore, the measure underscores the state's commitment to honoring and supporting those who have served in the military.

Summary

Senate Bill 175 aims to amend Wisconsin state law regarding building permit fees for certain home improvements made to accommodate disabled veterans. The bill mandates that political subdivisions must reduce the fee charged for building permits by 75% or a maximum of $500, whichever is less, when the permits are for improvements deemed necessary to accommodate the disabilities of disabled veterans, provided that the residence is owned by the veteran or their caretaker. This legislative measure is intended to ease the financial burden on disabled veterans seeking to modify their homes for better accessibility and usability.

Contention

While the bill seems broadly supportive of disabled veterans, one point of contention may arise from municipalities concerned about the financial implications of mandating fee reductions. Local governments might argue that such regulations could strain their budgets and possibly lead to increased taxes or fees in other areas to compensate for the reduction in permit revenue. Additionally, there might be discussions about the definition of necessary improvements and the validation process for disabled veteran status, which could lead to debates on implementation and equity among various local entities.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WI SB229

A tax credit for certain property tax increases and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI AB235

A tax credit for certain property tax increases and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI SB301

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)

WI AB245

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)

WI SB70

State finances and appropriations, constituting the executive budget act of the 2023 legislature. (FE)

WI SB16

Tuition and fee remission for certain veterans and their dependents enrolled in the University of Wisconsin System or a technical college. (FE)

WI AB43

State finances and appropriations, constituting the executive budget act of the 2023 legislature. (FE)

WI AB7

Tuition and fee remission for certain veterans and their dependents enrolled in the University of Wisconsin System or a technical college. (FE)

WI SB590

The provision of menstrual products in state and local buildings and school buildings and a school district revenue limit adjustment for costs of providing those products. (FE)

WI AB631

The provision of menstrual products in state and local buildings and school buildings and a school district revenue limit adjustment for costs of providing those products. (FE)

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.