Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB1119

Introduced
3/13/26  
Refer
3/13/26  

Caption

An Act to amend 704.07 (4), 704.45 (1) (c) and 704.45 (2); to create 704.07 (6) and 704.45 (1m) of the statutes; Relating to: rent abatement and retaliatory conduct and granting rule-making authority.

Impact

If enacted, AB1119 would amend existing housing laws to provide tenants with greater protections regarding their rights during disputes with landlords. This could significantly alter the dynamics of landlord-tenant relationships within the state, ensuring that tenants are not penalized for asserting their legal rights. The bill would likely enhance the ability of tenants to seek recourse through legal channels when facing unjust treatment, thus contributing to a more balanced rental market.

Summary

Assembly Bill 1119 addresses issues related to rent abatement and retaliatory conduct by landlords towards tenants. This legislation aims to establish clearer guidelines that protect tenants from unfair treatment when they pursue legitimate demands regarding rental conditions. By granting rule-making authority to relevant bodies, AB1119 seeks to formalize processes that can support tenants facing retaliatory eviction or other negative actions from their landlords due to their complaints or requests for maintenance.

Conclusion

Ultimately, AB1119 represents a legislative effort to redefine the responsibilities and rights of tenants and landlords alike, aiming to create a fairer housing environment. The ongoing discussions and developments surrounding this bill offer a glimpse into the evolving nature of housing policy and the governance of rental agreements in the state.

Contention

Debate around AB1119 may center on concerns among landlords about potential overreach of regulations that could complicate property management and rental decisions. Opponents of the bill may argue that it could diminish landlords' rights or lead to unintended consequences, such as disincentivizing rental properties or leading to a more adversarial relationship between landlords and tenants. Proponents, however, will likely assert that the bill is necessary to foster fair treatment and to uphold the rights of tenants in a way that promotes stability in housing.

Companion Bills

WI SB1076

Crossfiled An Act to amend 704.07 (4), 704.45 (1) (c) and 704.45 (2); to create 704.07 (6) and 704.45 (1m) of the statutes; Relating to: rent abatement and retaliatory conduct and granting rule-making authority.

Previously Filed As

WI SB1076

Rent abatement and retaliatory conduct and granting rule-making authority.

WI SB775

Sandhill crane damage abatement assistance for corn producers, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI AB805

Sandhill crane damage abatement assistance for corn producers, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI SB1137

Creating WisEARNS, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI AB1179

Creating WisEARNS, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI AB493

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

WI SB808

Creating a blue envelope program, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI AB815

Creating a blue envelope program, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI SB958

Creating the water fund for our future, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI AB790

Creating the water fund for our future, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.