Bill > AB65

This bill modifies Wisconsin's existing burglary statute by expanding the definition of burglary to include intentionally entering a dwelling or other specified locations without consent with the intent to commit battery, in addition to the current provisions for intent to steal or commit a felony. Currently, such an offense is classified as a Class F felony, which carries a potential penalty of up to 12.5 years in prison and/or a fine up to $25,000, and can be elevated to a Class E felony under certain circumstances, which increases the potential prison sentence to up to 15 years and the maximum fine to $50,000. By explicitly adding battery as a potential intent for burglary, the bill broadens the legal framework for prosecuting home invasions and unlawful entries where physical harm might be the primary objective, even if theft or another felony is not planned. The bill's technical language suggests it aims to close potential legal loopholes and provide law enforcement with clearer guidelines for charging individuals who enter private spaces with potentially violent intentions. Additionally, because the bill introduces a new criminal provision, it may trigger a review by the Joint Review Committee on Criminal Penalties to assess the potential impacts of the proposed changes.

Justice

https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/2025/proposals/reg/asm/bill/ab65