AB 1045 Wisconsin Assembly · 2025-2026 Regular Session

Relating to: the regulation of wake-enhanced boating; ordinances restricting wake-enhanced boating; and civil immunity for local regulation of wake-enhanced boating.

AB 1045 defines "wake-enhanced boating" as intentionally creating a large wake for activities like wakeboarding using devices such as ballast tanks. It sets state minimum restrictions: wake-enhanced boating must occur at least 500 feet from shore and in water at least 20 feet deep, while standard water sports (e.g., tubing) remain unaffected. Local governments can impose stricter rules - such as banning the activity in specific areas or requiring greater distances - and the bill provides legal protection for them when enforcing these rules in good faith. This directly affects boaters engaging in wake-enhanced activities and local authorities managing waterway regulations.
Bill status failed 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Feb 26, 2026 Last action Mar 23, 2026
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Feb 26, 2026
Introduced
Introduced by Representatives Gustafson, Goeben and Callahan; cosponsored by Senators Cabral-Guevara and Jacque
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3 primary · 0 co-sponsors

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