Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

Wisconsin Senate Bill SB82

Introduced
2/26/25  
Refer
2/26/25  

Caption

An Act to amend 20.931 (title); to create 20.931 (1) (am) and 20.931 (3) of the statutes; Relating to: governmental restrictions based on the energy source of a motor vehicle or other device.

Impact

If enacted, SB82 would represent a significant shift in how state and local governments regulate the sale and use of vehicles and devices within Wisconsin. The legislation would nullify any existing or future regulations that attempt to limit these transactions based on the energy source. This means that innovative technologies, including electric and alternative-fuel vehicles, would be welcomed without fear of regulatory barriers that could hinder their adoption or commercialization.

Summary

Senate Bill 82 aims to prohibit state agencies and local governmental units from imposing restrictions on the use or sale of motor vehicles and other devices based on their energy sources. The bill seeks to ensure that all vehicles and devices, regardless of whether they are powered by fossil fuels, electricity, or other means, are allowed to be bought, sold, or used without governmental limitations. The primary intent is to foster an inclusive market for various technologies and energy sources in the transportation sector and beyond.

Contention

Debate surrounding SB82 may center on the balance between promoting technological innovation and ensuring safety or environmental standards. Advocates of the bill argue it supports a free market for energy technologies, while opponents may express concern that the bill overlooks critical safety, environmental, and economic implications. There may be fears that without proper regulations, certain energy sources or technologies might not be adequately vetted for local contexts, potentially leading to adverse impacts on public safety or community environments.

Companion Bills

WI AB83

Crossfiled An Act to amend 20.931 (title); to create 20.931 (1) (am) and 20.931 (3) of the statutes; Relating to: governmental restrictions based on the energy source of a motor vehicle or other device.

Previously Filed As

WI SB184

Governmental restrictions based on the energy source of a motor vehicle or other device.

WI AB161

Governmental restrictions based on the energy source of a motor vehicle or other device.

WI AB83

Governmental restrictions based on the energy source of a motor vehicle or other device.

WI SB573

Relating to restrictions on use or sale of motor vehicles based on power source

WI HB2192

Relating to restrictions on use or sale of motor vehicles based on power source

WI HB1241

Class B authorized emergency vehicles and special restrictions on lamps on motor vehicles or equipment.

WI HB1241

AN ACT to amend and reenact sections 39-10-03.1 and 39-21-26 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to class B authorized emergency vehicles and special restrictions on lamps on motor vehicles or equipment.

WI SB990

In powers of department and local authorities, providing for restrictions of motor vehicles based on power source prohibited.

WI HB164

An Act To Amend Titles 21 And 30 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Motor Vehicles.

WI AB1190

An act to amend Section 1685 of the Vehicle Code, relating to the Department of Motor Vehicles.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.