New Wisconsin laws in 2025 impact state park stickers, EV tax
MILWAUKEE - Some new Wisconsin laws will take effect when the calendar turns to 2025. Here's a look at three changes to know about come Jan. 1.
State park stickers
Starting in 2025, anyone who buys an annual pass to enter state parks and certain recreational areas – often called "state park stickers" – will be able to use the pass for at least 12 months from the date of purchase.
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A sticker will be good through the final day of the 12th month after it was issued. For example, the Wisconsin Legislative Council said an annual vehicle admission sticker purchased on March 1, 2025, will be valid through March 31, 2026.
Current state law says annual passes are only accepted through the end of the calendar year regardless of the purchase date.
Excise tax for EV electricity
Electric vehicle owners will be required to pay an excise tax on the electricity they use starting Jan. 1. The tax rate is 3 cents per kilowatt-hour, putting it on par with the gas tax.
The Wisconsin Department of Revenue will collect the excise tax from registered parties every six months. The tax does not apply to at-home EV charging stations.
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Current law subjects public utilities to Public Service Commission oversight. 2023 Wisconsin Act 121 exempts EV charging stations from that oversight if they charge a fee based on the kilowatt-hour.
The act also regulates how, when and what types of charging stations the government can own, operate, manage or lease. While the excise tax takes effect on Jan. 1, additional provisions of Act 121 kick in on March 22.
Provisional physician licenses
2023 Wisconsin Act 214 aims to address a state – and nationwide – physician shortage. Starting in the new year, Wisconsin will offer a provisional license to physicians who completed their residency outside the U.S. The move allows them to enter the state's health care workforce faster.
Current law does not allow anyone to practice medicine or surgery in the state without a license from the Medical Examining Board. While practicing with a provisional license, physicians must operate under the supervision of certain licensed physicians.