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WI SB236

Bill

Status

Failed

3/23/2026

Primary Sponsor

Jesse James

Click for details

Origin

Senate

2025-2026 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Expands existing protections for telegraph, telecommunications, and electric utility infrastructure to also cover video service and broadband service provider property, including lines, wires, poles, and equipment

  • Increases penalty for intentionally damaging, destroying, or interfering with utility lines or property without permission from a Class B misdemeanor to a Class I felony (up to 3.5 years imprisonment and/or $10,000 fine)

  • Increases penalty for making unauthorized physical electrical connections to utility equipment from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class I felony

  • Maintains Class B misdemeanor penalty (up to 90 days imprisonment and/or $1,000 fine) for property owners who alter structures with attached utility lines without giving the company at least 24 hours' notice

  • Preserves exemption for persons who act with permission from the utility company owning the property

Legislative Description

Tampering with telecommunication or electric wires and providing a penalty.

Last Action

Failed to pass pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 1

3/23/2026

Committee Referrals

Judiciary and Public Safety5/9/2025

Full Bill Text

No bill text available