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Capitol Update 3-5-26
By Wisconsin School Administrators Alliance staff | March 5, 2026
Good afternoon,
As the legislative session winds down, I wanted to provide a brief update from Madison.
There is no new update on the ongoing surplus negotiations between the Governor and legislative leaders. When discussions last paused, each version of the proposed framework included $200 million to address the special education reimbursement shortfall, which would help districts reach the 42% and 45% reimbursement commitments made in the state budget. The primary issue lawmakers continue to work through is how best to structure property tax relief and whether there will be agreement on providing an individual tax rebate as part of any final deal.
Separately, the Joint Committee on Finance released a portion of the operating funds previously withheld from the Department of Public Instruction. This action restores approximately $1,750,000 in funding to the agency, helping DPI avoid potential operational reductions.
As you know, the Wisconsin State Assembly has concluded its regular floor period for the 2025–26 legislative session. As a result, any legislation that has not already passed the Assembly is effectively finished for the session, though proposals could be reintroduced in a future legislative cycle.
The Senate has indicated it plans to conclude its regular floor session by March 17. It remains unclear how many additional session days senators will schedule before then. Several large policy proposals unrelated to education could still be debated. One proposal impacting schools that appears to be gaining momentum is legislation establishing a mandatory “bell-to-bell” cell phone ban in public schools.
School leaders may wish to keep the following considerations in mind as discussions continue. If you have concerns, you may wish to share your perspective with your state Senator (Find Your Legislator).
Local control. Wisconsin’s 421 school districts operate in very different local contexts. While some districts have adopted or are considering bell-to-bell bans, others maintain policies that allow limited flexibility at the secondary level. Current law already allows local school boards to adopt stricter policies, including full-day bans, if they determine that approach best fits their community.
Implementation Timeline. This legislation is being considered during the same legislative session in which 2025 Act 42 was enacted. That law, which takes effect July 1, requires school districts to prohibit wireless communication devices during instructional time while allowing districts flexibility in how policies are structured. Districts must also report their policies to the Department of Public Instruction by October 1, which will provide policymakers with additional information on how these policies are working across the state.
Potential Implementation Costs. Some districts that have implemented or are considering bell-to-bell policies have utilized locked phone pouches or other technology systems to assist with enforcement. These approaches can create additional local costs, and some legislators have acknowledged that implementation may have financial implications for school districts.
SAA will continue to monitor activity at the Capitol and will keep members informed of any developments that may impact schools. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions.
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