With the 2025-26 legislative session concluded, Wisconsin lawmakers are turning their attention to a series of Legislative Council study committees that will examine policy issues ahead of the next legislative session. The Joint Legislative Council approved seven study committees for 2026, bringing together legislators and members of the public with expertise in the topics under review. Study committees typically meet during the summer and fall of even-numbered years and can ultimately recommend legislation for consideration by the Legislature.
The seven committees are focused on State-Tribal Relations; the District Attorney Funding Formula; Floodplain Restoration; Cryptocurrency; the Use of Artificial Intelligence in Health Care; the Definition of “Veteran”; and Cemeteries.
The Study Committee on the Use of Artificial Intelligence in Health Care, chaired by Sen. Rachael Cabral-Guevara (R-Appleton), is examining the use of AI in clinical care, the patient-provider relationship and interactions between patients, health insurers, Medicaid and health care providers. The committee held its first meeting August 13 and heard presentations on AI legislation and health care applications, as well as from patient advocacy organizations.
The Study Committee on Cemeteries, chaired by Rep. Calvin Callahan (R-Plymouth), is examining Wisconsin’s laws governing cemeteries and cemetery authorities. The committee is reviewing whether existing statutes should be updated or reorganized and is considering issues affecting cemetery operations and regulation. The committee held its first meeting August 5 and has several additional meetings scheduled. Wisconsin’s cemetery statutes are primarily contained in Chapter 157, which covers cemetery associations, municipal cemeteries, cemetery authorities and related matters.
The Study Committee on Cryptocurrency, chaired by Sen. Dan Stafsholt (R-New Richmond), is examining cryptocurrency staking and whether Wisconsin securities laws should apply to those services. The committee may also consider other current and potential uses of cryptocurrency and ways to encourage innovation while protecting consumers.
Other committees will focus on issues with more immediate implications for state and local government. The District Attorney Funding Formula committee will review how the state determines funding and staffing for district attorneys’ offices, while the Floodplain Restoration committee will examine state and federal policies that may create barriers to floodplain restoration projects. The Study Committee on the Definition of “Veteran” will examine whether Wisconsin’s statutory definition should be expanded or made more consistent across state law.
The Special Committee on State-Tribal Relations will continue the Legislature’s examination of issues involving Wisconsin’s tribal nations.
Study committees do not pass legislation themselves. Instead, after completing their work, a committee submits its recommendations to the Joint Legislative Council. If the Council approves proposed legislation, it can sponsor the legislation for introduction during the following legislative session, where it goes through the normal legislative process.