Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

Wisconsin Senate Bill SB1178

Introduced
3/19/26  
Refer
3/19/26  

Caption

An Act to amend 16.75 (1) (a) 1.; to create 15.105 (34), 16.24, 16.705 (1b) (e), 16.705 (10), 20.505 (1) (bm) and 20.505 (1) (kw) of the statutes; Relating to: creating the Wisconsin Climate Corps program, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

Impact

If enacted, SB1178 would significantly influence environmental policies within Wisconsin by promoting a structured approach to youth engagement in climate initiatives. The bill could lead to increased funding for community projects focused on sustainability, as well as a greater involvement of younger generations in environmental advocacy. This could also facilitate the development of a skilled workforce dedicated to addressing climate issues, thereby supporting long-term state goals for reducing carbon emissions and enhancing natural resource management.

Summary

SB1178 aims to create the Wisconsin Climate Corps program, which is designed to engage young people in environmental projects and initiatives across the state. The program is focused on building capacity for climate resilience and sustainability efforts within communities. By leveraging youth enthusiasm and energy, the bill seeks to address critical environmental concerns while providing valuable learning and employment opportunities for participants. The establishment of this program is also accompanied by rule-making authority and appropriations necessary for its implementation.

Contention

Debate around SB1178 may arise concerning the allocation of state funds and the program's scope. Some legislators and stakeholders may argue about the effectiveness of such a program in fundamentally addressing climate change, questioning whether the investment in youth engagement yields measurable environmental benefits. Others might express concerns over prioritizing youth initiatives over other pressing environmental regulations or economic challenges faced by the state. Thus, the conversation surrounding SB1178 could reflect broader tensions between immediate economic needs and long-term environmental goals.

Companion Bills

WI AB889

Crossfiled An Act to amend 16.75 (1) (a) 1.; to create 15.105 (34), 16.24, 16.705 (1b) (e), 16.705 (10), 20.505 (1) (bm) and 20.505 (1) (kw) of the statutes; Relating to: creating the Wisconsin Climate Corps program, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

Previously Filed As

WI AB889

Creating the Wisconsin Climate Corps program, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI SB642

Creating a landlord fire prevention grant program, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI AB695

Creating a landlord fire prevention grant program, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI SB776

Repealing the dry cleaner environmental response program, creating the revitalize Wisconsin program, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI AB780

Repealing the dry cleaner environmental response program, creating the revitalize Wisconsin program, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI SB808

Creating a blue envelope program, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI AB815

Creating a blue envelope program, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI SB1137

Creating WisEARNS, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI SB586

University of Wisconsin System tuition grant program, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI AB579

University of Wisconsin System tuition grant program, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.