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Bill

SB 798

Relating to: a wetland assured delineation program, extending the time limit for emergency rule procedures, providing an exemption from emergency rule procedures, and granting rule-making authority. (FE)

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Kristin Dassler-Alfheim and 3 co-sponsors

Wisconsin bill creates wetland delineation program and extends emergency rulemaking procedures, affecting property development and environmental regulation timelines.

Presented to the Governor on 4-2-2026
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 798

Legislative bill overview

SB 798 establishes a wetland assured delineation program in Wisconsin and modifies procedural rules for emergency rulemaking, including extending timeframes and creating exemptions from standard procedures. The bill grants the Department of Natural Resources authority to create rules governing how wetlands are officially identified and classified.

Why is this important

Wetland delineation directly affects landowners' ability to develop property, agricultural operations, and environmental protection efforts. The assured delineation program could provide certainty to property owners about wetland boundaries, while the emergency rulemaking changes could accelerate or bypass typical public input processes for regulatory decisions affecting land use across the state.

Potential points of contention

  • Property rights vs. environmental protection: Landowners may view strict wetland delineation as limiting development rights, while environmental advocates may worry the "assured" program creates loopholes for wetland degradation
  • Emergency rulemaking procedures: Extending timelines and exempting rules from standard procedures could reduce public comment opportunities, raising transparency concerns from various stakeholders
  • Implementation costs and clarity: Establishing a new delineation program requires resources and creates potential confusion if standards conflict with federal wetland regulations or existing state law

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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