Measure helps disabled veterans modify their homes to meet their needs.
MADISON…Legislation reducing building permit fees for a disabled veteran to retrofit their residence to meet their needs cleared a Senate committee today.
State Senator André Jacque (R-New Franken), author of the bill and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Natural Resources, Veteran and Military Affairs, said this legislation is a common-sense way to better meet our ongoing commitment to those who have sacrificed and suffered so much for us.
“Our veterans defended our freedom by putting their lives on the line, and many come home wounded, suffering permanent physical and mental disabilities that they must endure for the rest of their lives,” Sen. Jacque said. “Often, these veterans require specific modifications to their homes so that they can live as safely, comfortably, and independently as possible.”
Sen. Jacque said the bill would reduce building permit fees for disabled veterans making home improvements by 75% or $500, whichever is less, for improvements to their primary residence.
“Easing the costs of accommodating a veteran’s disability is the least we can do in return for their service,” Sen. Jacque said. “This bipartisan initiative is just one more way we can make Wisconsin the best state in the nation for our veterans and active-duty military members.”
Sen. Jacque expressed appreciation to the Wisconsin Department of the American Legion for bringing this issue to his attention. Similar legislation was enacted last year in Illinois after passing both the Illinois General Assembly and Senate on unanimous roll call votes.
Sen. Jacque’s legislation (Senate Bill 175) passed his committee in a 4-1 vote. It must now pass the full Senate and Assembly, and be signed by the Governor, to become law.
Senator André Jacque represents Northeast Wisconsin’s First Senate District, consisting of Door and Kewaunee Counties and portions of Brown, Calumet, Manitowoc, and Outagamie counties.
