Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB544

Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 10/15/25
• Refer: 10/15/25
• Failed: 3/23/26

Caption

An Act to create 97.30 (2m) of the statutes; Relating to: a statewide retail food establishment food grading system, providing an exemption from emergency rule procedures, granting rule-making authority, and providing a penalty. (FE)

Impact

The implementation of AB544 is expected to enhance food safety standards across the state. By standardizing the grading system, consumers will have access to clear and consistent information about the food safety compliance status of local establishments. This transparency aims to drive business improvements and foster accountability among food retailers. However, the bill also stipulates penalties for establishments that fail to comply with grading display requirements, including fines for repeated violations.

Summary

Assembly Bill 544 establishes a uniform statewide food safety grading system for retail food establishments in Wisconsin. Under this proposed legislation, the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) is tasked with developing a grading system based on a 100-point scale. The grading system categorizes food safety violations according to their risk to public health and assigns corresponding negative point values. Retail establishments would undergo unannounced inspections at least annually to assess compliance with food safety laws and to determine grades, which would be displayed publicly.

Contention

While proponents view the bill as a necessary step to protect public health and ensure food safety, there may be debates regarding the efficacy and fairness of the grading system. Concerns could arise over the potential financial burden placed on smaller establishments that may struggle to meet new compliance standards. Additionally, there may be discussions on how enforcement will be handled and whether local health departments have sufficient resources to conduct the required inspections effectively.