Sen. Van Wanggaard

Maddy summarySB 424 amends Wisconsin law to require all teacher preparatory programs in the state to mandate student teaching consisting of full days for a full semester or summer session, aligned with the cooperating school's daily schedule and calendar. This affects teacher preparation programs and applicants seeking teaching licenses in Wisconsin public schools. The bill specifies that the state superintendent must accept accreditation from U.S. Department of Education-recognized agencies for licensing or program approval purposes. Exceptions to the student teaching requirement are permitted only when institutional and school calendars conflict, as determined by the state superintendent.

Maddy summarySB 270 (Wisconsin Senate Bill 270) gives people who file complaints about election official conduct the right to appeal the Elections Commission's decisions to circuit court. It allows any complainant - regardless of whether they suffered a specific legal injury - to appeal a Commission decision dismissing their complaint or denying requested relief. To appeal, a complainant must file within 30 days of the Commission's order, and the appeal does not automatically stop the Commission's decision unless a court orders it to. This bill directly affects individuals who have filed election-related complaints and disagree with the Commission's handling of their case.

Maddy summarySB 782 amends Wisconsin statute 256.35(10)(a) to penalize intentionally sending false text messages to 911 reporting a non-existent emergency. It imposes fines of $100-$600 or up to 90 days in jail for a first offense, and classifies subsequent offenses within four years as a Class H felony. The law directly affects individuals who deliberately mislead emergency services via text, such as falsely reporting crimes or medical crises. Key provisions clarify that the penalty applies specifically when the sender knows the reported emergency is fabricated. This bill creates concrete legal consequences for misuse of 911 text services, aiming to deter non-emergency false reports.

Maddy summarySB 248 modifies Wisconsin's driver's license rules for individuals required to use ignition interlock devices (IIDs) after DUI convictions. It extends license restrictions by 180 days for specific IID violations, including three or more failed breath tests within 60 days, tampering with the device, or unauthorized removal. Drivers can dispute violations by providing documentation within 15 days, such as proof of device malfunction or an explanation for the incident. The bill also clarifies eligibility for a work driving license (occupational license) after 30-45 days of license suspension, contingent on IID installation and compliance with safety plans. These changes apply to drivers with multiple DUI convictions or license suspensions under existing law.

Maddy summarySB 482 extends the carryover period for unused research income tax credits from 15 to 50 taxable years. This change directly affects businesses that claim research tax credits but cannot fully utilize them in a single tax year. The bill modifies multiple sections of tax law to allow these unused credits to be carried forward and applied against future tax liabilities over a longer timeframe. The key provision (Section 7) updates the specific timeframe for crediting unused amounts against Wisconsin income taxes in subsequent years.

Maddy summarySB 533 defines "equipment" for correctional officers to include tools used for communication, seeking help, or accessing locked areas, alongside items designed to cause harm or restraint. The bill amends penalties for intentionally disarming an officer or removing their issued equipment. It directly affects correctional officers and individuals who interfere with their authorized tools, making such actions a punishable offense under existing law. The legislation clarifies what constitutes prohibited interference with an officer's duties-related equipment.

Maddy summarySB 575 clarifies which medical costs related to sexual assault forensic exams are covered by state compensation. It defines "examination costs" to include medical tests, HIV prevention medication (prophylaxis), and STI treatment provided during the exam process if related to the assault. The bill explicitly excludes administrative fees, attorney costs, or unrelated medical expenses from coverage. This directly affects sexual assault victims seeking reimbursement for specific, exam-related medical care under the state's compensation program.

Maddy summarySB 379 creates a $2,000 refundable individual income tax credit for Wisconsin parents who experience a stillbirth (defined as a birth requiring a fetal death report under state law). The credit applies to the taxable year of the stillbirth and is refundable, meaning parents who owe less in taxes than $2,000 will receive the difference as a cash payment from the state. Eligibility requires being a Wisconsin resident filing a joint or separate return, with specific limits: $2,000 total for married couples filing jointly, $1,000 each for unmarried parents or separate returns. Proof of eligibility, such as a fetal death report, must be submitted with the tax return.

Maddy summarySB 785 requires the Department of Public Instruction to create a free online portal on its website where the public can search license holder information. The portal must include the names of license holders under investigation, the outcome of investigations (including voluntary license surrender), and the names of individuals who had licenses revoked. This applies to license holders regulated by the state superintendent (such as educators or professionals) and ensures transparency about ongoing or completed investigations. The bill mandates that the department post these details in the portal, replacing current confidentiality practices for investigation status during proceedings.

Maddy summarySB 191 requires courts to serve subpoenas for law enforcement officers, tribal law enforcement officers, public officers, or public employees at their workplace address - not their home address - when their testimony relates to official duties. This applies to all witnesses in these roles whose testimony concerns actions taken in their official capacity or employment. The bill specifies that subpoenas must be delivered by giving a copy to the individual at work, leaving it at the workplace, or presenting it to them there. It updates legal procedures to streamline service for these officials while clarifying that "address" for such testimony means their employer’s street address under defined circumstances.