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SB 794

Relating to: ratification of the agreement negotiated between the Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System and the Wisconsin State Building Trades Negotiating Committee, for the 2025-26 fiscal year, covering employees in the building trades crafts collective bargaining unit, and authorizing an expenditure of funds. (FE)

2025-2026 Regular Session

Wisconsin bill ratifying 2025-26 collective bargaining agreement for UW System building trades workers and authorizing associated expenditures, which failed passage in March 2026.

Failed to pass pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 1
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Bill Summary · SB 794

Legislative bill overview

SB 794 would ratify a collective bargaining agreement between the University of Wisconsin System's Board of Regents and the Wisconsin State Building Trades Negotiating Committee for fiscal year 2025-26, covering employees in building trades crafts positions. The bill authorizes expenditure of funds necessary to implement the negotiated labor contract terms.

Why is this important

This bill determines compensation, benefits, and working conditions for skilled trades workers (electricians, plumbers, carpenters, etc.) employed by the UW System. The agreement's cost directly impacts university budgets and potentially tuition levels, affecting both institutional operations and public higher education accessibility.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost magnitude: Fiscal estimates were requested, suggesting budgetary concerns about the expenditure authorization amount and its impact on UW System finances
  • Wage/benefit competitiveness: Building trades labor markets are competitive; negotiated increases may reflect market pressures but could strain university budgets during tight fiscal periods
  • Precedent-setting: Public sector labor agreements often influence other state employee negotiations, making individual contracts politically sensitive

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

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