Madison – Governor Scott Walker signed seven bills into law at the Wisconsin State Capitol in Madison today.
Senate Bill 455, now Act 371, increases penalties for drunk driving offenses and aligns state law with surrounding states in how multiple offenders are penalized. The bill was authored by Senator Alberta Darling (R – River Hills) and Representative Jim Ott (R – Mequon).
Assembly Bill 624, now Act 372, allows alcohol retailers to retain invoices in electronic format rather than paper and eliminates the local referendum option for the elimination of all alcohol licensing. The bill was authored by Representative David Steffen (R – Green Bay) and Senator Luther Olsen (R – Ripon).
Senate Bill 387, now Act 373, provides clear statutory guidance to prevent confusion and aid in finding children a good, permanent home by establishing and clarifying procedures for changing the placement of a child or juvenile who is involved in the juvenile court system. The bill was authored by Senator Alberta Darling (R – River Hills) and Representative Joan Ballweg (R – Markesan).
Senate Bill 533, now Act 374, regulates the production and use of photo identification cards by local units of government to protect taxpayers and the integrity of elections. The bill was authored by Senator Van Wanggard (R – Racine) and Representative Joe Sanfelippo (R – New Berlin).
Assembly Bill 549, now Act 375, makes it more convenient for physical therapy patients to obtain a needed x-ray by allowing physical therapists who fulfill certain criteria to order x-rays. Rather than being referred to another healthcare provider, physical therapists will be able to order an x-ray for the physical therapy patient, thus providing more prompt treatment and reducing costs to the patient. The bill was authored by Representative Joe Sanfelippo (R – New Berlin) and Senator Van Wanggaard (R – Racine).
Assembly Bill 720, now Act 376, shortens the length of the redemption period in the foreclosure from a six or 12 month process to a three or six month process. This incentivizes borrowers to negotiate with lenders and reduces the possibility properties will be abandoned, left in disrepair, or damaged. The bill was authored by Representative Terry Katsma (R – Oostburg) and Senator Frank Lasee (R – De Pere).
Assembly Bill 901, now Act 377, increases funding to the Arts Board by $13,800 for fiscal year 2015-16. This grant from the National Endowment for the Arts requires a 1:1 match from each recipient and allows the Wisconsin Arts Board to fully match available federal funding to support the development of arts and humanities throughout the state. The bill was authored by Representative Joan Ballweg (R – Markesan) and Senator Sheila Harsdorf (R – River Falls).