WI AB874

Allows the Transportation Projects Commission (TPC) to approve major highway projects after a draft environmental impact statement, environmental assessment, or categorical exclusion is approved, rather than requiring a final environmental document as under current law

Shifts approval authority for draft environmental documents from the Federal Highway Administration to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, unless federal approval is necessary to secure federal funding

Adds "categorical exclusion" as a qualifying environmental document type for TPC project approval, defined as an exclusion from full environmental review requirements under 23 CFR 771.117

Applies to major highway projects exceeding $75,000,000 in total cost that require TPC reporting before construction can begin

Introduced January 16, 2026 by Representatives Vandermeer and Hysell, cosponsored by Senators Tomczyk and Pfaff, and referred to the Committee on State Affairs