WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 979

Relating to: requirements for proposed administrative rules that impose costs. (FE)

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by André Jacque

Wisconsin bill requiring state agencies to document and disclose costs imposed by proposed administrative rules before implementation to increase regulatory transparency and accountability.

Failed to pass pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 1
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 979

Legislative bill overview

SB 979 establishes requirements for Wisconsin state agencies to analyze and disclose the costs that proposed administrative rules would impose on businesses, individuals, and government entities before those rules can be implemented. The bill appears designed to mandate cost-benefit analysis and transparency documentation for regulatory proposals, potentially including fiscal impact statements or similar cost assessment procedures.

Why is this important

Administrative rules significantly affect Wisconsin's economy and residents' daily lives, yet their costs are not always clearly documented before adoption. This bill addresses whether regulatory agencies must justify their rules' expenses and make that analysis public—affecting everything from environmental compliance to occupational licensing. The requirement could slow rule implementation or increase administrative workload while potentially providing clearer information to affected parties.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory burden vs. transparency: Opponents may argue cost-analysis requirements delay necessary public health or safety protections; supporters contend agencies should justify expenses upfront
  • Definition of "costs": Disagreement likely over what counts as a cost (compliance expenses, lost productivity, administrative overhead) and who bears them
  • Agency capacity: Questions about whether agencies have resources to conduct thorough cost analyses and how detailed those analyses must be

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

Sign in to ask a question.