The City of Milwaukee's 2025-26 Legislative Package proposes many, many changes to state law.

Download the Full City of Milwaukee’s Legislative Package for 2025-26 (PDF, 55 pages)

Here's a highlight of items affecting our rental property interests:

Rent Control

Propose an amendment to state law that enables municipalities to enact rent control or rent stabilization measures based on local housing market conditions. The legislation would give cities and towns the authority to set limits on the amount or frequency of rent increases for certain rental units, particularly in high-demand urban areas. These policies could apply to existing rental units and be tailored to meet the specific needs of each community, with provisions to ensure that landlords can still cover maintenance and operating costs.

Mandated Licensing and Periodic Certification for Landlords

Propose state legislation mandating that all landlords obtain a license to operate rental properties, along with a requirement for periodic certification to ensure ongoing compliance with housing laws and property maintenance standards. As part of the licensing process, landlords would be required to complete training on tenant rights, fair housing laws, property maintenance responsibilities, and eviction procedures. Failure to maintain certification could result in fines, suspension of the license, or other penalties.

Residential Reinspection Program

Amend Wis. Stat. § 66.0104 to eliminate or reduce the statutory restrictions that currently limit how municipalities, such as Milwaukee, conduct reinspections of residential properties. This would restore local control over housing inspections and allow municipalities to proactively enforce housing codes and standards.

Significantly Increase Funding for Legal Aid Services

Propose state legislation to significantly increase funding for legal aid services that assist low-income tenants facing eviction, housing discrimination, or other legal challenges. The program would also include enhanced resources for state and local agencies to enforce existing anti-discrimination housing laws, such as those prohibiting discrimination based on race, disability, family status, or income source. The increased funding could provide additional attorneys, housing advocates, and support services to ensure tenants are aware of their rights and have the resources needed to protect them.

So how can you help? You could join the RPA, a group that, over the past 40 years, has spent more than half of its dues income on lobbying and court actions to secure the rights of legitimate rental owners.  We also accept donations in any amount. Some larger owners who are members of the Association have made additional donations as they feel the issue is that important.