Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB305

Introduced
6/6/25  
Refer
6/6/25  

Caption

An Act to amend 1.10 (4); to create 1.10 (3) (w) of the statutes; Relating to: designating the rusty patched bumble bee as the state native insect.

Impact

The passage of AB305 will amend existing statutes to formally include the rusty patched bumble bee as a recognized state symbol, alongside other designations such as the state flower and state bird. This designation is expected to foster educational initiatives surrounding the conservation of native insects and their critical roles in ecosystems, particularly as pollinators. By integrating this information into the Wisconsin Blue Book, it aims to promote public knowledge regarding the bumble bee and inspire further protective measures for its habitat.

Summary

Assembly Bill 305, introduced by a group of representatives and senators, aims to designate the rusty patched bumble bee (Bombus affinis) as the state native insect of Wisconsin. This legislative initiative is part of a broader effort to recognize and promote biodiversity within the state, as the rusty patched bumble bee has faced significant population declines due to habitat loss and environmental changes. By enshrining this designation into law, the bill seeks to highlight the importance of protecting this species and its habitat, as well as raising public awareness about local wildlife conservation efforts.

Contention

While the bill appeared to receive broad support among legislators, potential contention may arise from discussions about the necessary actions to protect the rusty patched bumble bee and other native species in Wisconsin. Concerns might include the feasibility of implementing conservation measures and the impact of such measures on land use policies. Additionally, the designation of a state insect could prompt debates regarding which species are most deserving of such recognition and the responsibilities that the state must undertake to ensure their survival.

Companion Bills

WI SB319

Crossfiled An Act to amend 1.10 (4); to create 1.10 (3) (w) of the statutes; Relating to: designating the rusty patched bumble bee as the state native insect.

Previously Filed As

WI SB319

Designating the rusty patched bumble bee as the state native insect.

WI SB155

Brown-belted bumblebee (Bombus griseocollis); designating as the official state native pollinator.

WI AB1123

Designating manoomin as the Wisconsin state native grain.

WI SB1078

Designating manoomin as the Wisconsin state native grain.

WI H3009

Alimony

WI H5089

Beaufort County voting precincts

WI HB1076

The payment of a death benefit to the beneficiary or next of kin of a member of the national guard who died while serving on state active duty; and to declare an emergency.

WI HB1076

AN ACT to amend and reenact section 37-01-48 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to the payment of a death benefit to the beneficiary or next of kin of a member of the national guard who died while serving on state active duty; and to declare an emergency.

WI HB3304

To create statues celebrating the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States.

WI H4350

Beaufort County voting precincts

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.