WI AB157

Prohibits filing or recording "non-improvement contracts" with registers of deeds—contracts for work, labor, services, or materials not used for real estate improvement that purport to create liens or encumbrances on property

Authorizes registers of deeds to reject and return unrecorded any non-improvement contracts or related notices, memoranda, or instruments presented for filing

Establishes criminal penalties of up to $10,000 fine and/or up to 9 months imprisonment for violations

Allows property owners affected by improperly recorded documents to bring civil actions and recover actual damages, court costs, and reasonable attorney fees, with courts required to release the property from the document's effect

Exempts loan security instruments, condominium/timeshare documents, homeowners association declarations, commercial leases, and certain statutory liens from the prohibition