Masthead Panorama E-update - Pixlr.jpg (1)
November 8, 2017

Homeowners’ Bill of Rights Passes –

Heads to Governor

Property Rights Prioritized in State Law

      In Wisconsin, for many decades we have seen battle after battle between local government and property owners.  Invoking property rights in this state often meant expensive litigation for homeowners against local governments looking to limit the use and benefit of an individual’s property.

     Since arriving in the legislature, I have constantly heard grievances from both property owners and local officials regarding these issues.  That is why I cosponsored two bills to help clarify state law with regard to substandard lots, conditional use permits, and the review process for property tax assessments. 

     Assembly Bill 479 and Assembly Bill 480 have become known as the Homeowners’ Bill of Rights.  I am proud to have worked with the lead authors, Senator Tom Tiffany and Representative Adam Jarchow on these important bills. 

     During the committee process, many ideas were brought forward to address the concerns raised at the public hearing.  In the end, the committee adopted amendments to improve the bills based on the input of homeowners, local officials, realtors, builders and other groups. 

     With adoption of the amendments to both bills, there was bipartisan support in each house for passage of the Homeowners’ Bill of Rights.  Governor Walker is expected to sign both bills into law.

     Below are links to summaries of both bills, as amended.  The summaries were prepared by the nonpartisan Legislative Council:

Legislative Council Summary for AB 479

Legislative Council Summary for AB 480