Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

Wisconsin Senate Bill SB848

Introduced
1/15/26  
Refer
1/15/26  

Caption

An Act to renumber 66.0911; to amend 60.53, 62.16 (2) (a) and 704.05 (3); to create 66.0911 (2) of the statutes; Relating to: constructing laterals and service pipes without a landowner’s permission in the City of Milwaukee. (FE)

Impact

This bill will alter existing state laws pertaining to property rights and utility construction in urban areas. By enabling construction without landowner permission, SB848 aims to simplify the permitting process for public and private entities involved in infrastructure development. This could result in a more efficient response to urban utility needs, potentially improving service delivery in Milwaukee. However, it raises concerns about the rights of property owners and the equity of utility developments within their properties.

Summary

SB848 addresses the legal requirements for constructing laterals and service pipes within the City of Milwaukee. Specifically, the bill proposes to allow the construction of these utility lines without the prior consent of landowners, which is a significant shift in the regulatory framework governing urban construction and utility management. The intent behind this legislation is to streamline processes related to utility installation, possibly reducing delays that can arise from seeking multiple landowner permissions, thereby facilitating faster development and service provision.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB848 center on the rights of landowners versus the need for efficient public utility management. Proponents of the bill argue that allowing construction without consent will eliminate bureaucratic hurdles that hinder infrastructure improvements, while critics express fears about the potential for abuse of power and the undermining of property rights. It remains to be seen how this legislation will balance the needs of urban development with the rights of individuals, making it a focal point of debate within the legislative discussions.

Companion Bills

WI AB871

Crossfiled An Act to renumber 66.0911; to amend 60.53, 62.16 (2) (a) and 704.05 (3); to create 66.0911 (2) of the statutes; Relating to: constructing laterals and service pipes without a landowner’s permission in the City of Milwaukee. (FE)

Previously Filed As

WI AB871

Constructing laterals and service pipes without a landowner’s permission in the City of Milwaukee. (FE)

WI SB761

Eliminating and modifying certain provisions enacted under 2023 Act 12 regarding the city of Milwaukee and Milwaukee County. (FE)

WI AB684

Eliminating and modifying certain provisions enacted under 2023 Act 12 regarding the city of Milwaukee and Milwaukee County. (FE)

WI AB2134

An act to amend Section 36513 of the Government Code, relating to local government.

WI AB100

An act to amend the Budget Act of 2023 (Chapters 12, 38, and 189 of the Statutes of 2023) by amending Items 5227-122-0001 and 7502-495 of Section 2.

WI SB763

The management of assets of and the voting of ownership interests in securities by the Wisconsin Retirement System and the retirement systems of the City and County of Milwaukee. (FE)

WI AB767

The management of assets of and the voting of ownership interests in securities by the Wisconsin Retirement System and the retirement systems of the City and County of Milwaukee. (FE)

WI HB05704

An Act Creating A Construction Pipeline Program.

WI HB5301

PIPES Act of 2025 Promoting Innovation in Pipeline Efficiency and Safety Act of 2025

WI SB519

Prohibit tax assessor entry to private property without permission

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.