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Bill

SB 980

Relating to: the expiration of administrative rules. (FE)

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by André Jacque

Wisconsin bill establishing sunset expiration dates for administrative rules to force periodic renewal and reduce regulatory accumulation, though creating compliance uncertainty.

Failed to pass pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 1
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Bill Summary · SB 980

Legislative bill overview

SB 980 would establish an expiration mechanism for Wisconsin administrative rules, requiring them to sunset after a specified period unless affirmatively renewed. This "sunset provision" approach aims to prevent outdated regulations from remaining on the books indefinitely and forces periodic review of regulatory necessity.

Why is this important

Administrative rules significantly impact business operations, licensing, environmental compliance, and public safety. A sunset mechanism would require state agencies to justify existing regulations, potentially reducing regulatory burden but also creating uncertainty for regulated industries and requiring ongoing legislative attention to prevent rule lapses that could affect public protections.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory predictability vs. compliance burden: Businesses may face uncertainty if rules expire unexpectedly, while proponents argue periodic review increases accountability and eliminates obsolete rules
  • Resource allocation: State agencies would need to dedicate staff to regularly defend existing rules in legislative processes, potentially diverting resources from other functions
  • Public protection concerns: Environmental, health, and safety rules could lapse if renewal processes stall, creating compliance gaps that potentially harm public welfare

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

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