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Bill

Bill

AB 1058

Relating to: access to prospective tenants’ credit scores and consumer credit reports.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Margaret Arney and 8 co-sponsors

AB 1058 restricts Wisconsin landlords' ability to access and use prospective tenants' credit scores and reports during rental screening.

Failed to pass pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 1
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Bill Summary · AB 1058

Legislative bill overview

AB 1058 would regulate landlords' access to prospective tenants' credit scores and consumer credit reports in Wisconsin. The bill establishes limitations on when and how rental housing providers can obtain and use credit information in tenant screening decisions.

Why is this important

Credit-based tenant screening significantly impacts housing access, particularly for lower-income renters, those with past financial hardships, or marginalized communities that may have less developed credit histories. Restricting this practice could expand housing opportunities while raising concerns about how landlords assess tenant reliability and rental payment capacity.

Potential points of contention

  • Housing market impacts: Landlords may argue that credit reports are essential risk-assessment tools; supporters counter they perpetuate cycles of housing discrimination and exclude qualified renters
  • Alternative screening methods: Disagreement over what constitutes adequate replacement screening mechanisms (income verification, employment history, references) and their effectiveness
  • Definition and scope: Disputes likely over which credit report types are restricted, what constitutes "prospective tenants," and exemptions for certain property types or circumstances

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

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