Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB172

Introduced
4/9/25  
Refer
4/9/25  
Refer
1/16/26  
Report Pass
1/30/26  
Refer
1/30/26  

Caption

An Act to repeal 100.80 (9) (b) 1.; to renumber and amend 100.80 (9) (b) 2.; to create 100.80 of the statutes; Relating to: consumer data protection and providing a penalty. (FE)

Impact

The passage of AB172 will significantly reshape data privacy laws within the state, imposing strict requirements on organizations that control or process large volumes of consumer personal data. Controllers are required to conduct data protection assessments and respond to consumer requests without undue delay, with penalties of up to $10,000 for violations. This places a stronger emphasis on consumer rights in the digital age, aligning state laws with emerging national standards on data protection. Moreover, local governments are preempted from enacting their own regulations on data protection, centralizing authority under state law.

Summary

Assembly Bill 172 proposes comprehensive measures for the protection of consumer data in Wisconsin. It establishes strict regulations governing how businesses, referred to as 'controllers', handle personal data, mandating transparency and accountability. Under the bill, consumers are granted essential rights regarding their personal information, including the ability to confirm if their data is being processed, to request corrections, to delete their data, and to opt-out of targeted advertising and data sales. The bill recognizes that personal data includes any information linked to an individual, with specific stipulations for the handling of sensitive data.

Contention

While AB172 aims to enhance consumer data protections, it has sparked discussions regarding the balance of regulatory measures and corporate responsibility. Proponents argue that the bill provides much-needed consumer rights in an age where data breaches and privacy invasions are prevalent. Critics, however, express concerns over the potential burden placed on businesses, particularly small enterprises, who may find compliance difficult and costly. Additionally, the preemption of local regulations raises questions about the ability of municipalities to address unique local consumer needs and protection strategies.

Companion Bills

WI SB166

Crossfiled An Act to repeal 100.80 (9) (b) 1.; to renumber and amend 100.80 (9) (b) 2.; to create 100.80 of the statutes; Relating to: consumer data protection and providing a penalty. (FE)

Previously Filed As

WI AB2650

CalSavers: retirement savings.

WI AB2607

California Americans with Disabilities Act Small Business Capital Access Loan Program.

WI SB1131

Debt collection.

WI AB2263

An act to amend Sections 100001.5, 100130.5, and 100170 100001.5 and 100130.5 of the Public Utilities Code, relating to housing.

WI SB166

Consumer data protection and providing a penalty. (FE)

WI SB977

Providing for consumer choice billing; imposing penalties; and making repeals.

WI HB2196

Providing for consumer choice billing; imposing penalties; and making repeals.

WI SB0363

Consumer protection: identity theft; references to identity theft protection act in 1846 RS 1; update. Amends sec. 9 of 1846 RS 1 (MCL 8.9). TIE BAR WITH: SB 360'25

WI SF0101

AN ACT relating to the protection of constitutional rights; amending the Second Amendment Protection Act as specified; creating exceptions to the Second Amendment Protection Act; creating civil penalties; creating criminal penalties; creating an exception to the Wyoming Governmental Claims Act; providing definitions; making conforming amendments; and providing for an effective date.

WI HB2175

Providing for consumer protection and for artificial intelligence and chatbots; imposing duties on the Bureau of Consumer Protection in the Office of Attorney General; and imposing penalties.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.