WI SB754

Creates regional transit authorities (RTAs) automatically in each metropolitan planning area (urbanized areas over 50,000 population) and allows permissive RTAs to be formed by two or more political subdivisions in other metropolitan statistical areas

Authorizes RTAs to impose a sales and use tax up to 0.5% within their jurisdictional area by board resolution, with the state retaining 1.5% of collections for administration costs

Grants RTAs broad powers including establishing and operating comprehensive local transportation systems, issuing tax-exempt revenue bonds, acquiring property through condemnation, coordinating specialized transportation for disabled and elderly residents, and contracting with public or private organizations for services

Establishes RTA governance through a board of directors with representatives from member counties, the two largest municipalities, a gubernatorial appointee, and up to two rotating municipal representatives serving four-year terms

Requires RTAs acquiring transportation systems to assume existing labor contracts and negotiate employee protection agreements; allows RTA employees to participate in the Wisconsin Retirement System if the RTA elects to join