Senate Bill 277 introduces a new framework for the expiration and readoption of administrative rules in Wisconsin, mandating that each chapter of the Wisconsin Administrative Code will expire seven years after its initial promulgation or readoption unless the agency takes action to readopt it. The bill establishes a process whereby agencies must notify the Joint Committee for Review of Administrative Rules (JCRAR) and relevant standing committees of their intention to readopt a chapter in the year prior to its expiration. If no objections are raised by committee members, the chapter is automatically considered readopted. However, if there are objections, the chapter will expire unless the agency follows the standard rule-making process to readopt it. Additionally, JCRAR is tasked with creating a schedule for the expiration of existing code chapters.

The bill also includes provisions aimed at modernizing the language used in administrative rules, requiring agencies to avoid outdated or derogatory terms. It amends existing statutes to reflect these changes and introduces new sections that outline the procedures for readoption, including the requirement for agencies to provide a statement affirming compliance with current laws. Furthermore, the legislative council staff and the legislative reference bureau are directed to prepare a manual to assist agencies in drafting and promulgating rules, which will include guidelines for the readoption process.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 227.114(2)(intro.), 227.114, 227.14(6)(c)1.(intro.), 227.14, 227.15(7), 227.15