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Bill

AB 996

Relating to: contributions by the Department of Financial Institutions to Trump accounts.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Elijah Behnke and 8 co-sponsors

Wisconsin bill authorizes the Department of Financial Institutions to contribute state funds to Trump-associated accounts, raising government ethics and fiscal accountability concerns.

Failed to concur in pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 1
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Bill Summary · AB 996

Legislative bill overview

AB 996 authorizes the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions to make financial contributions to accounts associated with Donald Trump. The bill has progressed through initial assembly procedures with a substitute amendment adopted on February 19, 2026, and is currently in the third reading stage.

Why is this important

This bill raises fundamental questions about appropriate use of state government resources and the proper role of public agencies. If passed, it would establish a precedent for state financial institutions directing funds to support individual political figures, which could affect public trust in government neutrality and fiscal accountability.

Potential points of contention

  • Separation of government and politics: Questions whether a state financial regulatory agency should use public resources to support any private individual or political cause
  • Fiscal and fiduciary concerns: Whether such contributions constitute appropriate use of departmental budgets and state funds, and whether they serve the public interest
  • Constitutional implications: Potential conflicts with equal protection principles and restrictions on government spending for partisan political purposes
  • Lack of public information: The bill's specific mechanics—contribution amounts, purposes, and beneficiary accounts—are not detailed in available legislative records

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

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