Bill > SB825

This bill modifies existing Wisconsin statutes related to environmental review for major highway projects. It introduces the term "categorical exclusion," which refers to a specific exemption from the need to prepare a full environmental assessment or environmental impact statement for certain highway projects, as defined by federal regulations (23 CFR 771.117). The bill amends provisions that require the commission to be notified of the approval of a "final" environmental impact statement or environmental assessment, changing this to require notification of a "draft" environmental impact statement, "draft" environmental assessment, or "draft categorical exclusion." This change applies to situations where construction is expected to commence within six years of project approval and also impacts the requirements for submitting a financing proposal to ensure timely construction. Furthermore, for major highway projects, the Department of Transportation can now request commission approval to proceed after completing a "draft" environmental impact statement, "draft" environmental assessment, or "draft categorical exclusion," rather than needing a finalized document.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/2025/proposals/reg/sen/bill/sb825