RPA Legislative Tracker

Updated: May 2026

HIGH THREAT

WISCONSIN CITIES COULD CREATE THEIR OWN LANDLORD RULEBOOKS

SB 1029 / AB 1048 — Introduced February 2026
This bill could eliminate statewide consistency for rental housing laws and allow local governments to create their own rules on screening criteria, rental fees, lease terms, and property operations — creating a confusing patchwork of regulations for Wisconsin housing providers.

EVICTIONS COULD BE PAUSED — EVEN WHEN RENT GOES UNPAID
SB 1107 — 2026 Legislative Session
This proposal would allow governments to suspend evictions during declared emergencies, creating serious concerns for rent collection, cash flow, and property stability for Wisconsin landlords.

TENANTS COULD WITHHOLD RENT OVER MAINTENANCE DISPUTES
SB 1076 — Introduced February 2026
This bill expands tenant rights related to rent withholding and maintenance disputes, increasing financial exposure and operational risk for rental property owners and managers.

LANDLORDS COULD BE REQUIRED TO PAY TENANT RELOCATION COSTS
SB 1098 — 2026 Legislative Session
This proposal would allow local governments to require housing providers to cover tenant relocation expenses in certain situations — potentially adding significant unexpected costs for Wisconsin property owners.

SERIOUS THREAT

LANDLORDS COULD BE BANNED FROM CHARGING APPLICATION FEES
SB 1063 / AB 1064 — Introduced February 2026
This proposal would prohibit housing providers from charging rental application fees used to cover background checks, credit reports, and screening costs — shifting more financial burden onto Wisconsin landlords and property managers.

CRIMINAL BACKGROUND SCREENING COULD BE RESTRICTED
SB 1057 — Introduced February 2026
This bill would limit how housing providers can use criminal background information during tenant screening, increasing liability concerns and reducing screening flexibility for Wisconsin landlords.

MASSIVE HOUSING BILL EXPANDS TENANT LEGAL POWER & GOVERNMENT OVERSIGHT
AB 607 / SB 605 — 2026 Legislative Session
This sweeping housing proposal would expand taxpayer-funded tenant legal services, increase government involvement in landlord-tenant matters, and create greater litigation and compliance risks for Wisconsin housing providers.

TAKE ACTION

These proposals could raise costs, weaken screening tools, increase lawsuits, and allow cities to impose new landlord regulations. The Rental Property Association tracks legislation, informs landlords, and fights harmful policies in Madison and local governments.

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