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AB 581

Relating to: disaster assistance and making an appropriation. (FE)

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Deb Andraca and 7 co-sponsors

AB 581 streamlines disaster relief by allowing the Department of Military Affairs to efficiently manage grants for individuals and businesses affected by disasters.

Representative Palmeri added as a coauthor
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · AB 581

Summary of AB 581: Disaster Assistance and Appropriation Bill

Bill Overview

Bill Number: AB 581
Title: Relating to disaster assistance and making an appropriation.
Introduced: October 24, 2025
Status: Coauthored by Representative Anderson as of November 10, 2025.
Committee: Referred to the Committee on Commerce.

Purpose and Intent

AB 581 aims to provide financial assistance for disaster relief through grants to individuals and businesses affected by disasters. The bill seeks to streamline the administration of these grants by appropriating funds to the Department of Military Affairs (DMA), specifically the Division of Emergency Management.

Key Provisions

  • Grant Program Authorization: The bill authorizes the DMA to administer disaster assistance grants, consolidating funding management for efficiency.
  • Flexibility in Fund Allocation: It recommends that all grant programs be included under a single appropriation to allow for flexible fund movement based on the type of disaster and the needs of applicants. This approach aims to expedite payments to recipients by reducing bureaucratic delays.
  • Administrative Costs: While the DMA does not incur costs for receiving grant funds, the bill acknowledges that administrative costs will be necessary for effective program management.

Fiscal Impact

  • State Fiscal Effect: The fiscal estimate indicates no direct state fiscal effect, but it may involve indeterminate increases in existing appropriations.
  • Local Government Costs: The bill does not impose mandatory costs on local governments, but it allows for permissive increases in costs related to disaster assistance.
  • Long-Term Implications: The bill is designed to enhance the efficiency of disaster funding management, potentially leading to quicker and more effective responses to disasters.

Affected Parties

  • Individuals and Businesses: Those impacted by disasters will benefit from the grant assistance provided through this bill.
  • Department of Military Affairs: The DMA will be responsible for administering the grants and managing the appropriated funds.
  • Local Governments: While not directly impacted by mandatory costs, local governments may see changes in how disaster assistance is administered in their jurisdictions.

Legislative Timeline

  • October 24, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Committee on Commerce.
  • October 30, 2025: Representative Ortiz-Velez added as a coauthor.
  • October 31, 2025: Fiscal estimate received.
  • November 4, 2025: Public hearing held.
  • November 5, 2025: Additional coauthors added, including Representatives Joers and Anderson.
  • November 10, 2025: Representative Anderson officially added as a coauthor.

Conclusion

AB 581 represents a legislative effort to enhance disaster assistance in Wisconsin by streamlining grant administration and ensuring that funds are allocated efficiently to those in need. The bill's focus on flexibility and promptness in disaster response is crucial for effective recovery efforts.

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

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