Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB730

Introduced
12/3/25  
Refer
12/3/25  

Caption

An Act to create 302.094 of the statutes; Relating to: in-person visiting periods for inmates of state correctional institutions and county jails or houses of correction. (FE)

Impact

Should AB730 be enacted, it would significantly alter current procedures for inmate visitation across the state. By mandating specific visiting periods, the bill would require correctional facilities to adapt their scheduling and resource allocations, potentially improving access for families who wish to maintain relationships with incarcerated individuals. Moreover, the legislation recognizes the therapeutic value of maintaining familial bonds during incarceration, thus placing an emphasis on rehabilitation rather than punishment alone. This could lead to a shift in how correctional facilities view inmate assistance programs and support services.

Summary

AB730 focuses on establishing specific in-person visiting periods for inmates held in state correctional institutions and county jails. The bill aims to enhance the conditions of confinement by ensuring that inmates have regular access to in-person visits from their families and support networks. The intent behind this legislation is to promote rehabilitation and maintain important social connections, which are deemed crucial for the successful reintegration of inmates into society post-release. Advocates argue that fostering family ties during incarceration positively impacts inmates' behavior and reduces recidivism rates.

Contention

The discussions surrounding AB730 may involve points of contention regarding operational adjustments that facilities would need to make to accommodate the prescribed visiting periods. Some legislators and correctional authorities may argue that the increased visitation options could strain resources and security protocols within correctional institutions. Conversely, proponents of the bill may emphasize that the long-term societal benefits, such as reduced recidivism and improved mental health among inmates, outweigh the initial logistical challenges. The potential redistributing of resources and how they are allocated to balance security with rehabilitative efforts will likely be a focal point of debate.

Companion Bills

WI SB725

Crossfiled In-person visiting periods for inmates of state correctional institutions and county jails or houses of correction. (FE)

Previously Filed As

WI SB725

In-person visiting periods for inmates of state correctional institutions and county jails or houses of correction. (FE)

WI AB723

Bathing periods for inmates of state correctional institutions and county jails or houses of correction. (FE)

WI SB714

Bathing periods for inmates of state correctional institutions and county jails or houses of correction. (FE)

WI AB736

Free menstrual products for inmates of state correctional institutions or county jails or houses of correction. (FE)

WI SB728

Free menstrual products for inmates of state correctional institutions or county jails or houses of correction. (FE)

WI AB741

Personal hygiene products for inmates of state correctional institutions and county jails and houses of correction and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI SB727

Personal hygiene products for inmates of state correctional institutions and county jails and houses of correction and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI AB733

Recreational opportunities and structured programming for inmates in state correctional institutions and county jails and houses of correction. (FE)

WI SB724

Recreational opportunities and structured programming for inmates in state correctional institutions and county jails and houses of correction. (FE)

WI AB726

Minimum wage for all inmates and residents of state correctional institutions and county jails and making an appropriation. (FE)

Similar Bills

CA AB850

Institutional Debt Transparency Act.

NJ A2359

Requires undergraduate students to file degree plan and requires institutions of higher education and certain propriety institutions to develop pathway systems to graduation.

NJ S1480

Requires undergraduate students to file degree plan and requires institutions of higher education and certain proprietary institutions to develop pathway systems to graduation.

CA AB2771

California Private Postsecondary Education Act of 2009.

NJ S1504

Establishes process for merger or consolidation of public institution of higher education with other institutions of higher education or certain proprietary institutions; requires executive and legislative approval of merger or consolidation.

NJ A2133

Establishes process for merger or consolidation of public institution of higher education with other institutions of higher education or certain proprietary institutions; requires executive and legislative approval of merger or consolidation.

TX HB5180

Relating to the issuance of a diploma to a student graduating from a public institution of higher education that has undergone a merger, acquisition, or name change.

CA AB1098

California Education Interagency Council.