Bill > SB172

This bill aims to prevent the filing or recording of contracts that do not improve real estate by establishing new restrictions and penalties for such actions. Specifically, the bill prohibits individuals from filing or presenting to a register of deeds any "non-improvement contract" or related documents, which are defined as contracts that involve work, labor, services, materials, or plans not used to improve real estate and that attempt to create a lien or security interest on real property. Registers of deeds are authorized to reject and return such documents without recording them. Violations of this prohibition can result in significant penalties, including a fine of up to $10,000, imprisonment for up to nine months, or both. Additionally, property owners who are negatively affected by such improper filings can pursue civil legal action against the person who filed the document. If successful in such a lawsuit, the owner can have the real estate released from the effect of the problematic document and potentially receive actual damages, court costs, and reasonable attorney fees. The bill is designed to protect property owners from potentially fraudulent or harmful contract filings that do not contribute to real estate improvements.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/2025/proposals/reg/sen/bill/sb172