Wisconsin Senate Bill SB175

Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/3/25
• Refer: 4/3/25
• Report Pass: 5/8/25

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.