Madison Reporter

A group of Republican lawmakers in Wisconsin has introduced a legislative package known as the Red Tape Reset. This initiative aims to cut regulatory red tape, enhance oversight of agency regulations, and ensure a more accountable regulatory framework in the state. Wisconsin is currently ranked as the 13th most regulated state in the United States and holds the position of being the second most regulated in the Midwest.

The package includes several bills designed to address different aspects of regulation:

- LRB-0565: Regulatory Sunsetting by Representative Neylon and Senator Nass proposes a seven-year sunset for each chapter of the Wisconsin Administrative Code unless reviewed and readopted by the Joint Committee for Review of Administrative Rules (JCRAR). "Creating more opportunities for legislative oversight and public engagement is a powerful way to fight overregulation," said Rep. Neylon.

- LRB-0566: Regulatory Budgeting by Representative Gustafson and Senator Bradley establishes a net-zero regulatory budgeting framework. "This bill aims to reduce red tape, increase efficiency, and create a better environment for innovation," stated Sen. Bradley.

- LRB-0567: One Rule Per Scope Statement by Representative Knodl and Senator Hutton ensures every rule has its own scope statement. Rep. Knodl remarked, "This bill is about good governance," while Sen. Hutton added, "One rule per scope statement is a simple, common-sense reform."

- LRB-0568: Challenging the Validity of Administrative Rules by Representative Tusler and Senator Wimberger requires courts to award attorney fees to successful plaintiffs challenging unlawful rules.

These proposals are presented as measures to stimulate economic growth by reducing regulatory burdens on businesses while enhancing transparency and accountability within government agencies.