After the Legislature met for floor sessions in early November, Gov. Tony Evers signed almost 50 new bills into law. Gov. Evers also vetoed several bills that the Legislature had passed and sent to him for review.

Signed Into Law

 Critical infrastructure: On Nov. 20, Gov. Evers signed into law as 2019 Act 33 (AB 426) a bill that makes it a felony to trespass and cause intentional damage to pipelines. With his signature, the governor also released a statement on the bill emphasizing that the bill still protects the right to exercise free speech and the right to assembly. Gov. Evers’s statement also noted that moving forward he expects the Legislature to “engage in meaningful dialogue and consultation with Wisconsin’s Tribal Nations before developing and advancing policies that directly or indirectly affect our Tribal Nations and indigenous persons in Wisconsin.” AB 426 had passed both houses of the Legislature with bipartisan support.

Electric bicycles: Also on Nov. 20, Gov. Evers signed into law as 2019 Act 34 (AB 132) a bill that defines electric bicycles, treating them similarly to traditional bicycles. Previously, e-bikes were considered “motor bicycles” or “motor vehicles” subject to more stringent regulations.

Gov. Evers touted the bill as an example of bipartisanship and released the following statement:

“Electric bicycles are not only a fun alternative to regular bicycles, but they offer a more sustainable and accessible transportation option for Wisconsinites. Whether it’s visitors sight-seeing in a Wisconsin community, folks choosing an environmentally friendly commute to work, or a transportation alternative for our seniors and people with disabilities, this is a great transit option for our local communities. I am happy to sign this bipartisan bill that ensures Wisconsinites can enjoy the ride safely.”

Also signed into law over the past few weeks:

• 2019 Act 24 (AB 137) – allowing pharmacists to administer vaccines.
• 2019 Act 56 (SB 380) – requiring the Department of Health Services (DHS) to reimburse Medicaid services provided via telehealth.
• 2019 Act 67 (SB 304) – prohibiting auto manufacturers from responding to automobile dealers who use an enhanced warranty reimbursement rate.

Vetoed

Bills vetoed by Gov. Evers in the past few weeks include:

• SB 60 (veto message), which would have made changes to the law regarding placement of sexually violent persons qualified for supervised release.
• AB 76 (veto message), which would prohibit DHS from requiring training for nurse aids that exceeds the minimum number of training hours required by federal law.
• AB 249 (veto message), which would create certain criteria for the Legislature to designate a memorial highway or bridge to a person.
• AB 53 (veto message), which would add parents’ names to the categories of pupil information schools may disclose.