WI AB889

Creates the Wisconsin Climate Corps program to provide workers for natural land restoration, climate resiliency projects, and home weatherization/energy efficiency projects in urban and rural areas statewide

Establishes an 11-member Wisconsin Climate Corps Board attached to the Department of Administration, including representatives from DNR, DOA, Workforce Development, legislators from both parties, and tribal/nonprofit members

Requires the board to contract with a statewide nonprofit corporation to manage the program, with eligible sponsors including local governments, tribal governments, nonprofits, and executive branch agencies

Mandates worker compensation of at least $15/hour, a housing stipend of at least $100/week (or housing provided), and gold-level health insurance coverage; preference given to workers ages 16-30, with at least 50% from underserved populations

Appropriates $50 million in 2025-26 for project grants, with administrative costs capped at 10% of grant amounts; requires annual audits by January 31 and legislative reports by March 31