Wisconsin State Senate Democratic Committee
Press Release

In The News: Wisconsin Republicans Propose New Price Hikes Aimed At Wisconsin Families

 

By - Nov 21st, 2025 02:41 pm

MADISON, WI – New reporting from the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel demonstrates Wisconsin Republicans’ continued refusal to address the soaring cost of living, as they propose new taxes aimed at families who enjoy outdoor activities across our state. The new proposed legislation would place taxes on anyone who enjoys hiking, boating, cycling, or skiing on public land.

SSDC Communications Director, Will Karcz, released the following statement on the proposed price hikes:

“Everyday families across our state are forced to make do with less, as costs rise and purchasing power decreases. In response to this universal struggle, Wisconsin Republicans have decided to levy new taxes on the millions of people across our state who prefer to spend their time outdoors. This blatantly out of touch effort is yet another proof point that our state’s Republican party is unable to address the struggles of working families. Senate Democrats remain laser focused on making Wisconsin more affordable, and this dichotomy is the reason why voters across our state will elect a Democratic majority at the polls next year.”

Read more on Wisconsin Republican’s efforts to raise costs on Wisconsin families:

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Republicans float fees for hiking, biking and foraging on state land to raise funds for DNR

  • “Republican lawmakers are suggesting imposing a fee for outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking and cross-country skiing on public land.”
  • “One of the bills would establish a hiking permit, which would be required for anyone traveling on foot on a groomed hiking trail on state-owned land. The permit would cost $20 for adults, and $10 for children 12 or older.”
  • “Another would require anyone using a non-motorized boat in Wisconsin to register it. removing the exemption in current state law.”
  • “Another proposed permit would requite a bicycle permit for anyone using trails on state-owned land. The permit would cost $40 for adults and $20 for children 12 and older.”
  • “Finally, a permit would be required for cross-country skiing on state land, with permits costing $40 per adult and $20 per child over 12.”

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.

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