Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB121

Introduced
3/24/23  
Refer
3/24/23  
Report Pass
10/19/23  
Refer
10/19/23  

Caption

Requiring the Department of Financial Institutions to implement a section 529A ABLE savings account program and granting rule-making authority. (FE)

Impact

The implementation of ABLE accounts within Wisconsin is expected to enhance financial independence for individuals with disabilities, facilitating better management of their expenses without losing government assistance. This creates a significant shift in how financial planning and savings can be approached for this demographic. Currently, such accounts could only be established in other states, limiting access. Thus, AB121 aims to bridge this gap and provide local opportunities for account management.

Summary

Assembly Bill 121 mandates that the Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) implement a qualified ABLE program as per section 529A of the Internal Revenue Code. The purpose of this program is to establish tax-exempt savings accounts for individuals with disabilities, allowing them to save and pay for qualified expenses such as education, housing, and transportation without jeopardizing their government benefits. This bill adds provisions in state law that were previously absent, enabling residents to benefit from these savings accounts directly through state administration.

Contention

Notably, the bill navigates between the need for state oversight and the potential complexity of establishing partnerships with other states or entities that already manage ABLE accounts. Discussions surrounding the bill may include concerns about administrative efficiency and the adequacy of resources to support the program effectively. Additionally, the transition to administering these accounts might raise questions regarding the confidentiality and security of personal financial information, which the bill seeks to uphold.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WI SB753

Funding for the department of financial institutions from the college savings program trust fund and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI AB761

Funding for the department of financial institutions from the college savings program trust fund and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI SB256

Delivery network couriers and transportation network drivers, Department of Financial Institutions’ approval to offer portable benefit accounts, providing for insurance coverage, modifying administrative rules related to accident and sickness insurance, and granting rule-making authority. (FE)

WI AB269

Delivery network couriers and transportation network drivers, Department of Financial Institutions’ approval to offer portable benefit accounts, providing for insurance coverage, modifying administrative rules related to accident and sickness insurance, and granting rule-making authority. (FE)

WI AB317

A Department of Children and Families program to make payments to child care programs, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI SB322

A Department of Children and Families program to make payments to child care programs, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI HB749

Authorizes the Louisiana Tuition Trust Authority to contract with a program manager for the administration of certain savings accounts (ABLE, START, and START K12 programs) and the investment of account funds (EN +$4,000,000 GF EX See Note)

WI SB951

Creating the Office of Financial Technology Innovation in the Department of Financial Institutions and a cryptocurrency pilot project, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI HB3500

ABLE ACCOUNT PROGRAM INFO

WI AB493

Authorizing community solar programs and granting rule-making authority. (FE)

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.