Senate Bill 185 proposes changes to the property tax exemption for nonprofit theaters in Wisconsin. The bill repeals the existing exemption criteria under section 70.11 (29p) and renumbers the current exemption under section 70.11 (29m) to 70.11 (29m) (a). It introduces a new provision, 70.11 (29m) (b), which expands the exemption to include property owned or leased by nonprofit organizations that operate one or more theaters for performing arts, regardless of whether they are indoors or outdoors. The new criteria require that the total seating capacity of the theaters be at least 240 persons, and the organization must have its federal tax-exempt status confirmed by the IRS in a determination letter issued no later than October 1, 1990.

The bill aims to make the property tax exemption more accessible to a broader range of nonprofit theaters, thereby supporting the performing arts community in Wisconsin. The changes will take effect for property tax assessments starting January 1, 2025. Additionally, because the bill pertains to tax exemptions, it may be reviewed by the Joint Survey Committee on Tax Exemptions, which will provide a report to be included as an appendix to the bill.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 70.11(29p), 70.11