WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

AB 956

Relating to: exempting certain agricultural warehouses from automatic fire sprinkler requirements.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Elijah Behnke and 12 co-sponsors

Wisconsin bill exempts specified agricultural warehouses from mandatory automatic fire sprinkler installation requirements to reduce farm construction costs.

Failed to pass notwithstanding the objections of the Governor pursuant to Joint Rule 82
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · AB 956

Legislative bill overview

AB 956 exempts certain agricultural warehouses from automatic fire sprinkler installation requirements under Wisconsin building codes. The bill was introduced in the Wisconsin Assembly and has progressed through initial legislative procedures, including adoption of an amendment in February 2026, with executive action taken in March 2026.

Why is this important

Agricultural warehouses store crops, equipment, and other farm products that can represent significant financial investments. Exempting them from automatic sprinkler requirements could reduce construction and operational costs for farmers, though it may affect fire safety standards and insurance implications for these facilities.

Potential points of contention

  • Fire safety trade-offs: Exempting sprinkler requirements may reduce fire suppression capability, potentially increasing risk to agricultural facilities and surrounding properties, though rural areas may have limited fire department resources regardless
  • Insurance and liability concerns: Property insurers may charge higher premiums or deny coverage for unsprinklered warehouses, shifting financial risk to farm operators and potentially creating disparities between compliant and exempt facilities
  • Scope definition: The bill's language on what qualifies as a "certain agricultural warehouse" matters significantly—unclear definitions could allow exemptions beyond intended uses or create inconsistent enforcement

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

Sign in to ask a question.