An Act to renumber 66.0628 (1) (a); to create 66.0628 (1) (ag) and 66.0628 (2s) of the statutes; Relating to: local building permit fees for certain improvements of residences of disabled veterans. (FE)
Summary
AB247 would require local governments and other political subdivisions in Wisconsin to reduce building permit fees for certain home-improvement projects at the primary residence of a disabled veteran. The reduction would be 75 percent of the fee or $500, whichever is less, and it would apply only when the work is necessary to accommodate the veteran’s disability and the residence is owned by the disabled veteran or by a caretaker of the disabled veteran.
The bill also creates a statutory definition cross-reference for “disabled veteran” by incorporating the definition already used in state law. Local governments would be allowed to ask for proof that the applicant meets the definition, that the home is the veteran’s primary residence, that the improvements are disability-related, and that the ownership requirement is satisfied. The measure is framed as a targeted fee relief provision rather than a broader exemption from permitting requirements.
Impact
AB247 would amend Wisconsin Statutes section 66.0628 by renumbering an existing paragraph and adding new provisions that mandate reduced local building permit fees in qualifying cases. Its practical effect would be to limit the amount municipalities, counties, and other political subdivisions may charge for permits tied to disability-related modifications of a disabled veteran’s primary home. The bill would affect local fee-setting authority and create a new benefit for disabled veterans and caretakers who own the residence, while preserving local discretion to verify eligibility.
Sentiment
The available context suggests generally favorable treatment of the bill, as reflected by its introduction with bipartisan cosponsorship from both Assembly and Senate members. The bill’s subject matter—financial relief for disabled veterans making necessary home modifications—indicates a supportive policy goal aimed at easing costs for a clearly defined group. However, the bill ultimately failed to pass pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 1, so despite its sympathetic purpose, it did not become law.
Contention
The main points of potential contention are likely administrative and fiscal rather than ideological. Local governments may object to the mandated fee reduction because it constrains local revenue and reduces flexibility in setting permit fees. There may also be questions about eligibility verification, including how disability status, primary residence, necessity of the improvements, and ownership by a caretaker would be documented and enforced. No committee transcript or recorded vote history was provided, so there is no direct evidence of specific opposition in the available materials.
Crossfiled
An Act to renumber 66.0628 (1) (a); to create 66.0628 (1) (ag) and 66.0628 (2s) of the statutes; Relating to: local building permit fees for certain improvements of residences of disabled veterans. (FE)