WI
Wisconsin Senate Bill SB208

Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

Wisconsin Senate Bill SB208

Introduced
4/16/25  

Caption

Prohibiting hedge funds from acquiring single-family homes in this state. (FE)

Impact

The bill, if passed, would alter the current landscape of home buying in Wisconsin, specifically by removing hedge funds from the equation as potential buyers of single-family homes. With increasing reports of hedge funds purchasing large blocks of residential properties, negatively impacting the availability and prices for individual buyers, this legislation is positioned to safeguard the interests of local communities. The enforcement mechanism stipulates that any ownership interest acquired in violation of this prohibition would be forfeited to the state, with the attorney general designated as responsible for enforcement.

Summary

Senate Bill 208 aims to prohibit hedge funds from acquiring ownership of single-family homes within the state of Wisconsin. This legislative move arises amid growing concerns over the influx of institutional investors, particularly hedge funds, purchasing residential properties, which many argue contributes to housing affordability issues and limits opportunities for individual homebuyers. The bill specifies the criteria for what constitutes a hedge fund and establishes clear prohibitions against such entities acquiring single-family residences, thus seeking to protect the integrity of the housing market and promote homeownership among local residents.

Contention

While supporters of SB 208 view it as a necessary protective measure for Wisconsin residents, opponents might argue that it could deter investment in the state's housing market and affect economic growth. There are concerns that such prohibitions could hinder the overall market dynamics, particularly if hedge funds play a role in driving new developments or providing rental opportunities. The balance between regulating institutional investment in housing and allowing market freedoms is a notable point of contention in discussions surrounding this bill.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WI SB264

Prohibiting a foreign adversary from acquiring agricultural or forestry land in this state.

WI AB269

Prohibiting a foreign adversary from acquiring agricultural or forestry land in this state.

WI SB348

Limitations on ownership of agricultural or forestry land in this state by foreign persons. (FE)

WI AB349

Limitations on ownership of agricultural or forestry land in this state by foreign persons. (FE)

WI SB1000

Prohibiting state contracting with certain business entities and providing a penalty. (FE)

WI AB1090

Prohibiting state contracting with certain business entities and providing a penalty. (FE)

WI AB894

Prohibiting state agency employees, state elected officials, federal government agency employees, and certain state individuals holding a national office from influencing social media Internet sites to censor users and providing a penalty. (FE)

WI SB577

Prohibiting an employer from relying on information about a prospective employee's compensation when making employment decisions or inquiring about a prospective employee's compensation and from restricting an employee's right to disclose compensation information, allowing actions in circuit court, and providing a penalty. (FE)

WI AB538

Prohibiting an employer from relying on information about a prospective employee's compensation when making employment decisions or inquiring about a prospective employee's compensation and from restricting an employee's right to disclose compensation information, allowing actions in circuit court, and providing a penalty. (FE)

WI SB315

Prohibiting food and beverages from being served in foam polystyrene packaging and providing a penalty. (FE)

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.