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Bill

SB 853

Relating to: consideration of climate change in certain local plans and making an appropriation. (FE)

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tim Carpenter and 4 co-sponsors

Wisconsin bill requiring local governments to incorporate climate change considerations into planning documents, with state funding support; failed to pass in 2026 Senate session.

Failed to pass pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 1
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 853

Legislative bill overview

SB 853 would require Wisconsin local governments to consider climate change impacts when developing comprehensive plans, land use plans, and other municipal planning documents. The bill includes an appropriation to support implementation of these climate consideration requirements.

Why is this important

Climate considerations in local planning affect how communities prepare infrastructure, zoning, and development for long-term environmental changes like flooding, drought, and extreme weather. This shapes where housing gets built, how transportation systems are designed, and what adaptation measures municipalities undertake—with significant costs and benefits distributed across property owners and taxpayers.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory burden and cost: Requiring climate analysis in all local planning documents could increase planning expenses for municipalities, particularly smaller or rural communities with limited budgets
  • Specificity and enforceability: The bill's requirements for "consideration" lack clear standards—unclear how thoroughly climate impacts must be analyzed or what happens if plans are deemed insufficient
  • Development impacts: Stricter climate-informed planning could restrict development in certain areas or increase construction costs, affecting housing affordability and business expansion
  • State-local authority: Questions about whether state mandates should override local decision-making authority on planning priorities and resource allocation

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

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