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Bill

SB 1118

Relating to: state procurement of products and services from businesses located in this state and setting a goal for local governments to purchase a certain percentage of products and services from businesses located in this state. (FE)

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tim Carpenter and 6 co-sponsors

Wisconsin bill proposing state procurement preferences for in-state vendors and local government purchase goals failed, aiming to boost local economic activity through government spending priorities.

Failed to pass pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 1
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Bill Summary · SB 1118

Legislative bill overview

SB 1118 would establish preferences for state procurement to prioritize Wisconsin-based businesses and set goals for local governments to purchase a specified percentage of products and services from in-state vendors. The bill failed to pass in the Wisconsin Senate on March 23, 2026, but reflects an effort to redirect public spending toward local economic development.

Why is this important

State and local government procurement represents billions in annual spending. Redirecting these purchases to in-state businesses could theoretically support local employment and tax bases, though it also affects pricing, competition, and supply chain efficiency. This type of policy reflects broader debates about economic protectionism versus free-market procurement practices.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost implications: Restricting procurement to in-state vendors may limit competition and potentially increase costs to taxpayers if local businesses charge premium prices
  • Legal compliance: State procurement preferences may conflict with federal interstate commerce protections and existing competitive bidding requirements under Wisconsin law
  • Practical constraints: Some specialized products or services may have limited in-state availability, forcing government agencies to either pay more or seek waivers, reducing the policy's effectiveness
  • Trade reciprocity concerns: Other states might respond with similar protectionist measures, potentially harming Wisconsin businesses that depend on out-of-state government contracts

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

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