CR_14-029 Revises Chapters NR 20 and 23, relating to trolling regulations on inland and boundary waters of Wisconsin.  

  • SECTION 6. DCF 250.12 (2) (b) is created to read:
    DCF 250.12 (2) (b) At least once per year, the department shall inspect each vehicle that is required to have a child safety alarm under s. DCF 250.08 (8) (a) to determine whether the child safety alarm is in good working order.
    SECTION 7. DCF 251.08 (8) is created to read:
    DCF 251.08 (8) CHILD CARE VEHICLE SAFETY ALARM. (a) A vehicle shall be equipped with a child safety alarm that prompts the driver to inspect the vehicle for children before exiting if all of the following conditions apply:
    1. The vehicle is owned or leased by a licensee or a contractor of a licensee.
    2. The vehicle has a seating capacity of 6 or more passengers plus the driver. The seating capacity of the vehicle shall be determined by the manufacturer.
    3. The vehicle is used to transport children in care.
    (b) No person may shut off a child safety alarm unless the person first inspects the vehicle to ensure that no child is left unattended in the vehicle.
    (c) The child safety alarm shall be properly maintained and in good working order each time the vehicle is used for transporting children to or from a center.
    Note: Information on the required vehicle safety alarm is available in the "child care licensing/information for providers" section of the department website at http://dcf.wisconsin.gov .
    SECTION 8. DCF 251.12 (2) is renumbered DCF 251.12 (2) (a).
    SECTION 9. DCF 251.12 (2) (b) is created to read:
    DCF 251.12 (2) (b) At least once per year, the department shall inspect each vehicle that is required to have a child safety alarm under s. DCF 251.08 (8) (a) to determine whether the child safety alarm is in good working order.
    SECTION 10. DCF 252.06 is renumbered DCF 252.06 (2) (a).
    SECTION 11. DCF 252.06 (2) (b) is created to read:
    DCF 252.06 (2) (b) At least once per year, the department shall inspect each vehicle that is required to have a child safety alarm under s. DCF 252.09 (5) (a) to determine whether the child safety alarm is in good working order.
    SECTION 12. DCF 252.09 (5) is created to read:
    DCF 252.09 (5) CHILD CARE VEHICLE SAFETY ALARM. (a) A vehicle shall be equipped with a child safety alarm that prompts the driver to inspect the vehicle for children before exiting if all of the following conditions apply:
    1. The vehicle is owned or leased by a licensee or a contractor of a licensee.
    2. The vehicle has a seating capacity of 6 or more passengers plus the driver. The seating capacity of the vehicle shall be determined by the manufacturer.
    3. The vehicle is used to transport children in care.
    (b) No person may shut off a child safety alarm unless the person first inspects the vehicle to ensure that no child is left unattended in the vehicle.
    (c) The child safety alarm shall be properly maintained and in good working order each time the vehicle is used for transporting children to or from a base camp.
    Note: Information on the required vehicle safety alarm is available in the "child care licensing/information for providers" section of the department website at http://dcf.wisconsin.gov .
    SECTION 13. EFFECTIVE DATE. This rule shall take effect the first day of the month following publication in the Administrative Register as provided in s. 227.22 (2) (intro.) , Stats.
    STATE OF WISCONSIN
    DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION
    DOA-2049 (R03/2012)
    Division of Executive Budget and Finance
    101 East Wilson Street, 10th Floor
    P.O. Box 7864
    Madison, WI 53707-7864
    FAX: (608) 267-0372
    ADMINISTRATIVE RULES
    Fiscal Estimate & Economic Impact Analysis
    1. Type of Estimate and Analysis
    X Original   Updated   Corrected
    2. Administrative Rule Chapter, Title and Number
    DCF 202, Child Care Certification; DCF 250, Family Child Care Centers; DCF 251, Group Child Care Centers; and DCF 252, Day Camps for Children and Day Care Programs Established by School Boards.
    3. Subject
    Child Care Vehicle Safety Alarm
    4. Fund Sources Affected
    5. Chapter 20, Stats. Appropriations Affected
    GPR   FED   PRO   PRS   SEG   SEG-S
    6. Fiscal Effect of Implementing the Rule
    No Fiscal Effect
    Indeterminate
    Increase Existing Revenues
    Decrease Existing Revenues
    X Increase Costs
    X Could Absorb Within Agency's Budget
    Decrease Cost
    7. The Rule Will Impact the Following (Check All That Apply)
    State's Economy
    X Local Government Units
    Specific Businesses/Sectors
    Public Utility Rate Payers
    Small Businesses (if checked, complete Attachment A)
    8. Would Implementation and Compliance Costs Be Greater Than $20 million?
    Yes   X No
    9. Policy Problem Addressed by the Rule
    Section 48.658 (4), Stats., directs the department to promulgate rules that include the requirement that the department, whenever it inspects a child care provider that is licensed under s. 48.65 (1) or established or contracted for under s. 120.13 (14), and a certification agency, whenever it inspects a child care provider that is certified under s. 48.651, to inspect the child safety alarm of each child care vehicle that is used to transport children to and from the child care provider to determine whether the child safety alarm is in good working order.
    10. Summary of the businesses, business sectors, associations representing business, local governmental units, and individuals that may be affected by the proposed rule that were contacted for comments.
    Certification agencies, Wisconsin Child Care Administrators Association, Wisconsin Family Child Care Association, Wisconsin Early Childhood Association, Supporting Families Together Association, AFSCME, and Wisconsin Intertribal Child Care Association.
    11. Identify the local governmental units that participated in the development of this EIA.
    Waukesha County Health and Human Services
    12. Summary of Rule's Economic and Fiscal Impact on Specific Businesses, Business Sectors, Public Utility Rate Payers, Local Governmental Units and the State's Economy as a Whole (Include Implementation and Compliance Costs Expected to be Incurred)
    There is no economic or fiscal impact on child care providers. The child care vehicle safety alarm requirements in the rule are also in statute.
    The rule affects the department and certification agencies. Section 48.658 (4), Stats., directs the department to promulgate rules that include the requirement that the department or certification agency inspect the child care vehicle of child care licensees and certified child care operators to determine whether the child safety alarm is in good order. The rules provide that the department shall inspect a child care vehicle of licensees at least once per year. Certification agencies shall inspect a child care vehicle before initial certification, recertification, or within 30 days following a child care operator's move to a new location.
    The economic or fiscal effect of the rules on certification agencies and the department is the cost of the difference between the frequency that the rules require inspections of child care vehicles and the cost of less frequent inspections. Inspection of child care vehicles can be time-consuming if the vehicle is not on the child care premises when the department or certification agency is there for other reasons. The department's inspections of child care licensees are unannounced. Certification agencies do an unannounced inspection of certified child care operators at least once every 2 years and other inspections may be scheduled. The vehicle may not be present at the time of an inspection because the child care provider contracts with a third-party transportation company or the vehicle may be in use transporting children.
    One certification agency commented.
    Waukesha County Health and Human Service's certification program does not have a financial impact in doing inspections with monitoring the car alarms for this proposed rule. The certifiers have been checking this for the past few years as part of the routine transportation section for car alarms in DCF 202 standards. We check this at initial visits, re- certifications, and, if needed, during monitoring visits. Most of our providers have chosen to either not transport or use a car that has less than 6 passengers, so we do not have many providers transporting at this time.
    Four group child care centers commented.
    1. I do not see any issues. The alarm requirement is already effective. The rule clarifies what the licensing specialist expects.
    2. I agree with the rule. All safeguards should be in place to ensure no harm comes to the children.
    3. The cost is around $125 for each vehicle, which is not bad.
    4. There was a cost to this requirement, especially because we have 3 vehicles. We are looking at the safety of our children and that is worth more than any amount of money. The alarm requirement should apply to any vehicle that carries groups of children.
    Three family child care centers commented. In general, licensed family child care centers may not provide care to more than 8 children under the age of 7, and certified child care providers may not provide care for more than 3 unrelated children under the age of 7.
    1. The alarm requirement should not apply to family child care centers. It is an unnecessary cost that I cannot afford. We already are required to have a system of counting to know how many and where children are at all times. A center that cannot handle that should not be caring for children. The alarm requirement is an unnecessary cost that I cannot afford. It has taken away the field trips that the children looked forward to. The alarm may be warranted for larger centers and centers with larger vehicles, but it is not warranted for family child care centers.
    2. Field trips used to be a vital part of my child care program, but I ended the field trips and sold my van because of the alarm requirement. I could not figure out how to comply with the requirement and keep the children safe. I would have to unload the children and leave them unattended to enter the van and climb to the back to turn off the alarm.
    3. The alarm requirement should be changed to apply only to passenger vehicles of 8 or more in addition to the driver instead of 6 or more. Child care programs are already facing hardship because of Youngstar and other Shares policies. School buses are not required to have a safety alarm.
    13. Benefits of Implementing the Rule and Alternative(s) to Implementing the Rule
    Section 48.658 (4), Stats., directs the department to promulgate the rule.
    14. Long Range Implications of Implementing the Rule
    None
    15. Compare With Approaches Being Used by Federal Government
    NA
    16. Compare With Approaches Being Used by Neighboring States (Illinois, Iowa, Michigan and Minnesota )
    None of the adjacent states have a child care vehicle safety alarm requirement.
    17. Contact Name
    18. Contact Phone Number
    Jill Chase
    (608) 267-7933
    This document can be made available in alternate formats to individuals with disabilities upon request.
    Notice of Hearing
    Natural Resources
    Fish, Game, etc., Chs. 1—
    (DNR # FH-34-13)
    NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to ss. 227.16 and 227.17 , Stats, the Department of Natural Resources, hereinafter the Department, will hold a public hearing on Board Order FH-34-13 affecting Chapters NR 20 and 23 , relating to trolling regulations on inland and boundary waters of Wisconsin on the date and at the time and locations listed below.
    Hearing Date and Locations
    Date and time
    April 14, 2014, at 7:00 p.m.
    Locations (listed by county)
    Adams
    Adams County Courthouse County Board Room
    400 Main Street, Friendship, WI 53934
    Ashland
    Ashland County Court House 3rd Floor Court Room
    201 Main Street West, Ashland, WI 54806
    Barron
    Barron County Government Center Auditorium
    335 E Monroe Avenue, Barron, WI 54812
    Bayfield
    Drummond Civic Center
    52540 Front Avenue, Drummond, WI 54832
    Brown
    NWTC Corporate Conference Center Room CC210
    2740 W Mason St., Green Bay, WI 54307
    Buffalo
    Alma High School Gymnasium
    S1618 State Road 35, Alma, WI 54610
    Burnett
    Burnett County Government Center Room 165
    7410 County Road K, Siren, WI 54872
    Calumet
    Calumet County Courthouse Room B025
    206 Court Street, Chilton, WI 53014
    Chippewa
    Chippewa Falls Middle School
    750 Tropicana Boulevard, Chippewa Falls, WI 54729
    Clark
    Greenwood High School Cafetorium
    306 W Central Avenue, Greenwood, WI 54437
    Columbia
    Poynette Village Hall
    106 S Main Street, Poynette, WI 53955
    Crawford
    Prairie du Chien High School
    800 E Crawford Street, Prairie du Chien, WI 53821
    Dane
    Middleton High School Performing Arts Center
    2100 Bristol Street, Middleton, WI 53562
    Dodge
    Horicon Marsh International Ed. Center Lower Auditorium
    N7725 STH 28, Horicon, WI 53032
    Door
    Sturgeon Bay High School Commons
    1230 Michigan Street, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235
    Douglas
    Solon Springs High School
    8993 E Baldwin Avenue, Solon Springs, WI 54873
    Dunn
    Dunn County Fish and Game Club
    1600 Pine Avenue, Menomonie, WI 54751
    Eau Claire
    CVTC Business Ed. Center Room 103
    620 W Clairemont Ave., Eau Claire, WI 54701
    Florence
    Florence Natural Resources Center
    5631 Forestry Drive, Florence, WI 54121
    Fond du Lac
    Theisen Middle School
    525 E Pioneer Road, Fond du Lac, WI 54935
    Forest
    Crandon High School
    9750 US Highway 8 West, Crandon, WI 54520
    Grant
    Lancaster High School Auditorium
    806 E Elm Street, Lancaster, WI 53813
    Green
    Monroe Middle School
    1510 13th Street, Monroe, WI 53566
    Green Lake
    Green Lake High School Small Gymnasium
    612 Mill Street, Green Lake, WI 54941
    Iowa
    Dodgeville High School Gymnasium
    912 Chapel Street, Dodgeville, WI 53533
    Iron
    Mercer Community Center
    2648 W Margaret Street, Mercer, WI 54547
    Jackson
    Black River Falls Middle School LGI Room
    1202 Pierce Street, Black River Falls, WI 54615
    Jefferson
    Jefferson County Fair Park Activity Center
    503 N Jackson Avenue, Jefferson, WI 53549
    Juneau
    Olson Middle School Auditorium
    508 Grayside Avenue, Mauston, WI 53958
    Kenosha
    Bristol School District #1 Gymnasium
    20121 83rd Street, Bristol, WI 53104
    Kewaunee
    Kewaunee High School Little Theater
    911 3rd Street, Kewaunee, WI 54216
    La Crosse
    Onalaska High School Performing Arts Center
    700 Hilltopper Place, Onalaska, WI 54650
    Lafayette
    Darlington Elementary School Lg. Group Room
    11630 Center Hill Rd., Darlington, WI 53530
    Langlade
    Antigo High School Volm Theater
    1900 10th Avenue, Antigo, WI 54409
    Lincoln
    Merrill High School Auditorium
    1201 N Sales Street, Merrill, WI 54452
    Manitowoc
    UW-Manitowoc Theatre
    705 Viebahn Street, Manitowoc, WI 54220
    Marathon
    D.C. Everest Middle School Auditorium
    9302 Schofield Avenue, Weston, WI 54476
    Marinette
    Wausaukee High School Auditorium
    N11941 Highway 141, Wausaukee, WI 54177
    Marquette
    Montello High School Community Room
    222 Forest Lane, Montello, WI 53949
    Menominee
    Menominee County Courthouse
    W3269 Courthouse Lane, Keshena, WI 54135
    Milwaukee
    Nathan Hale High School Auditorium
    11601 W Lincoln Avenue, West Allis, WI 53227
    Monroe
    Meadowview School Cafetorium
    1225 N Water Street, Sparta, WI 54656
    Oconto
    Suring High School Cafeteria
    411 E Algoma Street, Suring, WI 54174
    Oneida
    James William Middle School
    915 Acacia Lane, Rhinelander, WI 54501
    Outagamie
    Riverview Middle School Auditorium
    101 Oak Street, Kaukauna, WI 54130
    Ozaukee
    Webster Middle School Commons
    W75 N624 Wauwatosa Road, Cedarburg, WI 53012
    Pepin
    Pepin County Government Center County Board Room
    740 7th Avenue West, Durand, WI 54736
    Pierce
    Ellsworth High School Auditorium
    323 Hillcrest Street, Ellsworth, WI 54011
    Polk
    Unity High School Auditorium
    1908 State Hwy 46, Balsam Lake, WI 54810
    Portage
    Ben Franklin Junior High School Auditorium
    2000 Polk Street, Stevens Point, WI 54481
    Price
    Price County Courthouse Boardroom
    126 Cherry Street, Phillips, WI 54555
    Racine
    Union Grove High School
    3433 S Colony Avenue, Union Grove, WI 53182
    Richland
    Richland County Courthouse
    181 W Seminary Street, Richland Center, WI 53581
    Rock
    Milton High School Auditorium
    114 W High Street, Milton, WI 53563
    Rusk
    Ladysmith High School Auditorium
    1700 Edgewood Avenue East, Ladysmith, WI 54848
    Saint Croix
    St. Croix Central High School Commons
    1751 Broadway Street, Hammond, WI 54015
    Sauk
    UW-Baraboo Campus, Lecture Hall A-4
    1006 Connie Road, Baraboo, WI 53913
    Sawyer
    Winter High School Auditorium
    6585 Grove Street, Winter, WI 54896
    Shawano
    Shawano Middle School Room LGI
    1050 S Union Street, Shawano, WI 54166
    Sheboygan
    Plymouth High School Auditorium
    125 Highland Avenue, Plymouth, WI 53073
    Taylor
    Taylor County Multipurpose Meeting Room
    Hwy 64/Hwy 13, Medford, WI 54451
    Trempealeau
    Whitehall City Center Gymnasium
    18620 Hobson Street, Whitehall, WI 54773
    Vernon
    Viroqua High School Commons
    100 Blackhawk Drive, Viroqua, WI 54665
    Vilas
    St. Germain Elementary School Gymnasium
    8234 Hwy 70 West, St. Germain, WI 54558
    Walworth
    Delavan-Darien High School LGR Room 124/125
    150 Cummings Street, Delavan, WI 53115
    Washburn
    Spooner High School Auditorium
    801 County Highway A, Spooner, WI 54801
    Washington
    Washington County Fair Park
    3000 Hwy PV, West Bend, WI 53095
    Waukesha
    Waukesha Co. Tech. Coll., Richard Anderson Center
    800 Main Street, Pewaukee, WI 53072
    Waupaca
    Waupaca High School Performing Arts Center
    E2325 King Road, Waupaca, WI 54981
    Waushara
    Waushara Co. Court House Board Room 265
    209 S Saint Marie St., Wautoma, WI 54982
    Winnebago
    Webster Stanley Middle School Auditorium
    915 Hazel Street, Oshkosh, WI 54901
    Wood
    Pittsville School District Admin. Building Auditorium
    5459 Elementary Ave., Pittsville, WI 54466
    Reasonable accommodations, including the provision of informational material in an alternative format, will be provided for qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. Contact Kari Lee-Zimmerman by email kari.leezimmerman@wisconsin.gov or by calling (608) 266-0580. A request must include specific information and be received at least 10 days before the date of the scheduled hearing.
    Availability of the p roposed r ules and f iscal e stimate
    The proposed rule and supporting documents, including the fiscal estimate, may be viewed and downloaded from the Administrative Rules System Web site which can be accessed through the link https://health.wisconsin.gov/admrules/public/Home . If you do not have Internet access, a printed copy of the proposed rule and supporting documents, including the fiscal estimate, may be obtained free of charge by contacting Tim Simonson, Department of Natural Resources, Bureau of Fisheries Management 101 S. Webster St, Madison, WI, 53703, or by calling (608) 266-5222.
    Submitting Comments and Deadline for Submission
    Comments on the proposed rule must be received on or before April 14, 2014 . Written comments may be submitted by U.S. mail, fax, email, or through the Internet and will have the same weight and effect as oral statements presented at the public hearing. Written comments and any questions on the proposed rules should be submitted to:
    Tim Simonson
    Department of Natural Resources
    Bureau of Fisheries Management
    101 S Webster St, Madison, WI 53703
    Phone: 608-266-5222
    Internet: Use the Administrative Rules System website accessible through the link provided above.
    Analysis Prepared by the Department of Natural Resources
    Statutory authority
    Sections 29.014 (1) and 29.041 , Stats., have been interpreted as giving the department the authority to make changes to fishing regulations on inland, outlying, and boundary waters of Wisconsin.
    Plain language analysis of the proposed rule
    The proposed rule would make modifications to portions of chs. NR 20 and 23 , pertaining to trolling fishing regulations on inland and boundary waters of Wisconsin.
    This rule would allow some form of trolling on all inland waters in Wisconsin, which would simplify current regulations and reduce confusion between trolling and position fishing. Trolling means fishing by trailing any lure, bait, or similar device that may be used to attract or catch fish from a boat propelled by a means other than drifting or rowing. Drifting or "row trolling" is allowed in all waters statewide. Position fishing means fishing from a boat in a manner where the fishing line extends vertically into the water while the boat is maneuvered by the use of a motor. Position fishing could be a musky angler fishing with a sucker as bait while maneuvering the boat, but the fishing line would have to remain vertical. If it is trailed out behind the boat or fished under a bobber, then a significant part of the fishing line is no longer vertical in the water and the person is then motor trolling, which is prohibited on many waters. Many anglers want the option to trail a fishing line behind their boat while maneuvering the boat and not need to worry whether the line is staying completely vertical in the water. Allowing trolling in all inland waters may remove the need to define position fishing and allow anglers to trail bait behind their boats as well as do other forms of trolling, such as using planar boards that extend fishing lines far from the boat while motoring through the water.
    Allowing trolling statewide would:
    1) simplify regulations by eliminating confusion about where trolling is or is not allowed;
    2) allow moving boats to trail behind suckers or other minnows while occupants are casting on all waters;
    3) eliminate the need for disabled anglers to have to apply for trolling permits; and
    4) provide additional fishing opportunities for anglers who may have difficulty fishing by other methods.
    The rule allows fishing by the method of trolling on all inland waters with one hook, bait, or lure and — depending on location — up to three hooks, baits, or lures. Trolling means trailing a lure or bait from a boat propelled by a means other than drifting or rowing, and Section 1 will also include means other than pedaling or paddling.
    Section 2 (amending s. NR 20.06 (1) ) allows trolling with one hook, bait, or lure statewide and applies county-wide to Iron, Menominee, Milwaukee, Ozaukee, and Vilas counties. It also applies county-wide to Fond du Lac and Waushara counties, with the exception of Lake Winnebago system waters in those counties that allow 3 hooks, baits, or lures when trolling.
    Exceptions to the one hook, bait, or lure rule are listed in Section 3 (creating s NR 20.15 (4), covering 55 counties) and Sections 16, 20, 25, 32, 33, 35, 37, 48, 50, 55, 60, and 61 (amendments throughout s. NR 20.20 and ch. NR 23 ). All other sections repeal existing rule language for counties that will now be governed by Section 3, which allows trolling with up to three hooks, baits, or lures per person. Door, Florence, Jackson, Lincoln, Marathon, Marquette, Oneida, Sawyer, Sheboygan, and Washington counties will allow trolling with 3 hooks, baits, or lures on waters where it is currently allowed and trolling with 1 hook, bait, or lure on all other waters in the county. The number of hooks, baits, or lures allowed on Lake Michigan and Green Bay tributaries will match the number allowed in their respective counties. All Lake Winnebago system waters will allow trolling with up to 3 hooks, baits, or lures. There is no change to trolling rules on outlying waters and WI-MN, WI-IA, and WI-MI boundary waters, which already allow trolling with up to three hooks, baits, or lures except on WI-MI boundary waters of Vilas County which will allow trolling with only 1 hook, bait, or lure.
    Summary of and comparison with existing or proposed federal statutes and regulations
    Authority to promulgate fishing regulations is granted to states. None of the proposed changes violate or conflict with federal regulations.
    Comparison with rules in adjacent states
    Motor trolling has been allowed for decades in Michigan (3 lines) and Minnesota (1 line). Trolling is allowed in Illinois provided the angler has not more than three poles and lines with not more than two hooks or lures on each. Iowa anglers may not use more than two lines or more than two hooks on each line when still fishing or trolling; if trolling and bait casting, one cannot use more than two trolling spoons or artificial baits on one line. A third line may be used when possessing a valid third line fishing permit.
    Summary of factual data and analytical methodologies
    Restrictions on motor trolling are inconsistently applied across the inland waters of Wisconsin. There is no biological justification for this inconsistency from lake-to-lake or county-to-county; angling success (catch rates) and harvest of muskellunge, walleye, or northern pike do not differ between casting and trolling. Also, a variety of interpretations still exist among anglers regarding the differences between "motor trolling" and "position fishing." For example, the practice of drifting with live bait and occasionally repositioning the boat, usually with an electric motor (often while also casting and retrieving an artificial lure), is specifically prohibited, yet many anglers believe this method is consistent with the definition of "position fishing." There are two primary concerns related to motor trolling: first, that trolling will result in more conflicts among anglers on small lakes, and second, that trolling negatively impacts the size-structure of fish populations (mainly muskellunge). However, the department has had no reports of user conflicts from the considerable number of waters already open to motor trolling, even though most are less than 400 acres in size.
    In 2012, attendees of the statewide Spring Fish and Wildlife Hearings voted in favor of a Conservation Congress advisory question to allow motor trolling statewide, with 1,928 people in favor and 1,576 people opposed. In a 2010-11 statewide mail survey, 64% of musky anglers reported doing some amount of trolling for muskellunge in Wisconsin during 2010, and 91% indicated they would do some amount of trolling if it were legalized statewide.
    A 2013 rule (FH-18-12) proposed by the department originally included a trolling proposal that would have allowed trolling on all inland waters statewide with up to three hooks, baits, or lures per angler (three is the maximum number of hooks, baits, or lures that a person may use while hook and line fishing). After public hearings in each county and discussions with Wisconsin Conservation Congress delegates, the rule was modified to allow trolling on all inland waters statewide with one hook, bait, or lure per angler, and allowing trolling with up to three hooks, baits, or lures in most counties of the State and some individual waters. However, after submitting the rule to the Governor's Office of Regulatory Compliance, it requested that the department remove all trolling elements from the rule and obtain additional public input on a trolling proposal.
    Analysis and supporting documents used to determine effect on small business or in preparation of an economic impact analysis
    It is not expected that there will be any economic impact directly related to these rule changes. The proposed rule does not apply directly to businesses, but to sport anglers. The department will conduct an economic impact analysis to determine if any individuals, businesses, local governments, or other entities expect to be affected economically.
    Effects on Small Business
    The rule is not expected to have an effect on small businesses. The proposed rule does not impose any compliance or reporting requirements on small businesses nor are any design or operational standards contained in the rule.
    The Small Business Regulatory Coordinator may be contacted at SmallBusiness@dnr.state.wi.us , or by calling (608) 266-1959.
    Environmental Analysis
    The Department has made a preliminary determination that adoption of the proposed rules would not involve significant adverse environmental effects and would not need an environmental analysis under ch. NR 150 , Wis. Adm. Code. However, based on comments received, an environmental analysis may be prepared before proceeding. This analysis would summarize the Department's consideration of the impacts of the proposal and any reasonable alternatives.
    Fiscal Estimate Summary
    It is not expected that there will be any economic impact directly related to these rule changes. The proposed rule does not apply directly to businesses, but to sport anglers. The rule is not expected to have an effect on small businesses. The proposed rule does not impose any compliance or reporting requirements on small businesses nor are any design or operational standards contained in the rule.
    Agency Contact Person
    Tim simonson
    Department of Natural Resources
    P.O. Box 7921
    Madison, WI 53707-7921
    Telephone: (608) 266-5222
    Email: timothy.simonson@wisconsin.gov
    STATE OF WISCONSIN
    DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION
    DOA-2049 (R03/2012)
    Division of Executive Budget and Finance
    101 East Wilson Street, 10th Floor
    P.O. Box 7864
    Madison, WI 53707-7864
    FAX: (608) 267-0372
    ADMINISTRATIVE RULES
    Fiscal Estimate & Economic Impact Analysis
    1. Type of Estimate and Analysis
    X Original   Updated   Corrected
    2. Administrative Rule Chapter, Title and Number
    NR 20, Fishing: Inland Waters; Outlying Waters and NR 23, Wisconsin-Michigan Boundary Waters
    3. Subject
    Trolling regulations on inland and boundary waters of Wisconsin
    4. Fund Sources Affected
    5. Chapter 20, Stats. Appropriations Affected
    GPR   FED   PRO   PRS   SEG   SEG-S
    6. Fiscal Effect of Implementing the Rule
    X No Fiscal Effect
    Indeterminate
    Increase Existing Revenues
    Decrease Existing Revenues
    Increase Costs
    Could Absorb Within Agency's Budget
    Decrease Cost
    7. The Rule Will Impact the Following (Check All That Apply)
    State's Economy
    Local Government Units
    Specific Businesses/Sectors
    Public Utility Rate Payers
    Small Businesses (if checked, complete Attachment A)
    8. Would Implementation and Compliance Costs Be Greater Than $20 million?
    Yes   X No
    9. Policy Problem Addressed by the Rule
    This rule is being pursued in order to allow some form of trolling on all inland waters in Wisconsin, which would simplify current regulations and reduce angler confusion between trolling and position fishing.
    10. Summary of the businesses, business sectors, associations representing business, local governmental units, and individuals that may be affected by the proposed rule that were contacted for comments.
    For comments on the economic impact of the rule, the department will be contacting the Wisconsin Conservation Congress, the Wisconsin Counties Association, League of Wisconsin Municipalities, tribal entities, and many other angling associations throughout the state.
    11. Identify the local governmental units that participated in the development of this EIA.
    If any local governmental units request to coordinate with the department on preparation of the EIA they will be listed here.
    12. Summary of Rule's Economic and Fiscal Impact on Specific Businesses, Business Sectors, Public Utility Rate Payers, Local Governmental Units and the State's Economy as a Whole (Include Implementation and Compliance Costs Expected to be Incurred)
    It is not expected that there will be any economic impact directly related to these rule changes. The proposed rule does not apply directly to businesses, but to sport anglers. The rule is not expected to have an effect on small businesses. The proposed rule does not impose any compliance or reporting requirements on small businesses nor are any design or operational standards contained in the rule.
    13. Benefits of Implementing the Rule and Alternative(s) to Implementing the Rule
    Restrictions on motor trolling are inconsistently applied across the inland waters of Wisconsin. There is no biological justification for this inconsistency from lake-to-lake or county-to-county; angling success (catch rates) and harvest of muskellunge, walleye, or northern pike do not differ between casting and trolling. Also, a variety of interpretations still exist among anglers regarding the differences between "motor trolling" and "position fishing." For example, the practice of drifting with live bait and occasionally repositioning the boat, usually with an electric motor (often while also casting and retrieving an artificial lure), is specifically prohibited, yet many anglers believe this method is consistent with the definition of "position fishing." There are two primary concerns related to motor trolling: first, that trolling will result in more conflicts among anglers on small lakes, and second, that trolling negatively impacts the size-structure of fish populations (mainly muskellunge). However, the department has had no reports of user conflicts from the considerable number of waters already open to motor trolling, even though most are less than 400 acres in size.
    14. Long Range Implications of Implementing the Rule
    No state fiscal impact is expected.
    Allowing trolling statewide would:
    1) simplify regulations by eliminating confusion about where trolling is or is not allowed;
    2) allow moving boats to trail behind suckers or other minnows while occupants are casting on all waters;
    3) eliminate the need for disabled anglers to have to apply for trolling permits; and
    4) provide additional fishing opportunities for anglers who may have difficulty fishing by other methods.
    15. Compare With Approaches Being Used by Federal Government
    Authority to promulgate fishing regulations is granted to states. None of the proposed changes violate or conflict with federal regulations.
    16. Compare With Approaches Being Used by Neighboring States (Illinois, Iowa, Michigan and Minnesota )
    Motor trolling has been allowed for decades in Michigan (3 lines) and Minnesota (1 line). Trolling is allowed in Illinois provided the angler has not more than three poles and lines with not more than two hooks or lures on each. Iowa anglers may not use more than two lines or more than two hooks on each line when still fishing or trolling; if trolling and bait casting, one cannot use more than two trolling spoons or artificial baits on one line. A third line may be used when possessing a valid third line fishing permit.
    A 2013 department rule (FH-18-12) originally included a trolling proposal that would have allowed trolling on all inland waters statewide with up to three hooks, baits, or lures per angler (three is the maximum number of hooks, baits, or lures that a person may use while hook and line fishing). After public hearings in each county and discussions with Wisconsin Conservation Congress delegates, the rule was modified to allow trolling on all inland waters statewide with one hook, bait, or lure per angler, and allowing trolling with up to three hooks, baits, or lures in most counties of the State and some individual waters. However, after submitting the rule to the Governor's Office of Regulatory Compliance, it requested that the department remove all trolling elements from the rule and obtain additional public input on a trolling proposal.
    17. Contact Name
    18. Contact Phone Number
    Tim Simonson
    608-266-5222
    This document can be made available in alternate formats to individuals with disabilities upon request.
    Notice of Hearing
    Natural Resources
    Environmental Protection — WPDES, Chs. 200—
    (DNR # WT-13-12)
    NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to ss. 227.16 and 227.17 , Stats, the Department of Natural Resources, hereinafter the Department, will hold a public hearing on proposed revisions to Chapters NR 200 , 201 , 203 , and 205 , Wis. Adm. Code, relating to the Wisconsin Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (WPDES) wastewater permit program regarding permit processing and permit issuance procedures, on the date and at the time and location listed below.
    Hearing Date and Location
    Date:   Thursday, May 1, 2014
    Time:  
    10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
    Location:
      Department of Natural Resources
      Natural Resources Building
      Room 313
      101 South Webster Street
      Madison, WI 53703
    Reasonable accommodations, including the provision of informational material in an alternative format, will be provided for qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. Contact Paul Luebke using the contact information below. A request must include specific information and be received at least 10 days before the date of the scheduled hearing.
    Availability of the p roposed r ules and f iscal e stimate
    The proposed rule and supporting documents, including the fiscal estimate, may be viewed and downloaded from the Administrative Rules System Web site which can be accessed through the link https://health.wisconsin.gov/admrules/public/Home . If you do not have Internet access, a printed copy of the proposed rule and supporting documents, including the fiscal estimate, may be obtained free of charge by contacting Paul Luebke using the contact information below.
    Submitting Comments
    Comments on the proposed rule must be received on or before May 12, 2014 . Written comments may be submitted by U.S. mail, fax, E-mail, or through the Internet and will have the same weight and effect as oral statements presented at the public hearing. Written comments and any questions on the proposed rules should be submitted to:
    Paul Luebke, WQ/3
    Department of Natural Resources
    Bureau of Water Quality
    101 S Webster St
    PO Box 7921
    Madison, WI 53707-7921
    Phone: (608) 266-0234
    Fax: (608) 267-2800
    Internet: Use the Administrative Rules System Web site accessible through the link provided above.
    Analysis Prepared by the Department of Natural Resources
    Statutes interpreted
    Statutory authority
    Sections 227.11 , 283.11 , 283.31 , 283.37 , 283.39 , and 283.41 , Stats.
    Explanation of agency authority
    Chapter 283 , Stats., grants authority to the Department to establish, administer and maintain a Wisconsin Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (WPDES). More specifically, ss. 283.11 and 283.31 , Stats., provide authority to promulgate rules to administer the WPDES permit program consistent with federal requirements. The Department has general authority to promulgate rules under s. 227.11 (2) (a) , Stats., that interpret the specific statutory authority granted in ch. 283 , Stats.
    Related statute or rule
    These rules relate directly to the WPDES permit program that regulates wastewater discharges. Chapters NR 200 , 201 , and 203 , Wis. Adm. Code relate to permit processing and permit issuance procedures. Chapter NR 205 , Wis. Adm. Code, contains general provisions applicable to the WPDES permit program.
    Plain language analysis
    The purpose of the proposed rule changes is to ensure that the state's regulations are consistent with federal regulations as well as recent statutory revision in 2011 Act 167 . The rule changes will establish clear regulatory requirements for the processing of WPDES permits. Minor clarifications and corrections will also be made to these chapters.
    Specifically, the proposed rule package will address EPA's issues with the state authority regarding permit processing issues and other permit issuance procedural matters. In a letter dated July 18, 2011, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) identified 75 potential issues with Wisconsin's statutory and regulatory authority for the WPDES permit program. EPA directed the Department to either make rule changes to address this inconsistency or obtain a statement from the Attorney General's Office verifying that the existing rule is consistent with federal regulations. The Department believes adoption of these rule changes (referred to as Rule Package 6) will address EPA's concerns for 13 of the issues. The item number of the applicable EPA issue is indicated in each rule section that addresses an EPA issue.
    Following is a brief summary of changes to chs. NR 200 , 201 , 203 , and 205 , Wis. Adm. Code:
    Chapter NR 200 — This chapter contains the requirements for permit applications and water quality standards variances. A new section was created to add the federal regulations for the preparation of a draft permit after the receipt of a complete application, which were lacking in the rule as cited in EPA issue 65.
    Chapter NR 201 — This chapter contains the requirements for the contents of the fact sheet for WPDES permits. Because of several changes needed to update the existing rule this chapter was repealed and recreated. It now includes all the federal regulations to address EPA issues 21 and 66. It is also consistent with s. 283.45 , Stats. A note states that if the public notice includes some of the information specified in the fact sheet it may be omitted from the fact sheet because it is more appropriate in the public notice (decision to issue or deny a permit and the beginning and end dates of the comment period). The recreated rule was written compliant with the format procedures for drafting rules that the existing rule did not follow.
    Chapter NR 203 — This chapter contains the processes for public noticing a draft permit, informational hearing, final determination to issue or deny a permit, and public adjudicatory hearing. Following are the significant changes to this rule:
      The rule was revised to address EPA issues 3, 22, 50, and 51 to be consistent with federal regulations. This consists of language clarifying the processes for permit actions (modifications, revocation and reissuance, or termination), identifying the causes for permit actions, the notification of government agencies and others, and public informational hearing requests.
      The rule was revised to address 2011 Act 167 changes to ch. 283 and ch. 285 , Stats., and changes initiated by the Department to clarify public notice procedures. This consists of language to identify what is to be included in the public notice, allows use of the Department's Internet Web site to post public notices and documents, proposed variances to water quality standards may be included in the public notice, the term notification replaces circulation to reflect the broader use of electronic media, and permit actions related to substantial changes to concentrated animal feeding operation nutrient management plans.
    Chapter NR 205 — This chapter contains WPDES program definitions, general conditions applicable to WPDES permits, and requirements for the issuance of WPDES general permits. The rule was revised to address EPA issues 18, 45, 47, 48, 49, and 62 to be consistent with federal regulations. This consists of language that added termination of the permit for certain violations, replaced the use of the term suspension with termination, clarified the signatory requirements for permit documents, revised the reporting requirements for facility changes, and added general conditions that permit compliance constitutes compliance for purposes of enforcement and affirmative defense.
    Summary and comparison with existing and proposed federal regulations
    The Department rules will be consistent with existing federal regulations with the revisions contained in this rule package. No proposed federal regulations are applicable; none were mentioned in EPA's letter that contained the 75 issues the Department needed to address.
    Comparison of similar rules in adjacent states
    All the other U.S. EPA Region 5 states (Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, and Ohio) are subject to the U.S. EPA regulations that are delegated to the states for implementation. Wisconsin's rules for permit processing and other permit issuance procedures should essentially be the same as the other states.
    Summary of factual data and analytical methodologies
    Not applicable.
    Analysis and supporting documentation used to determine effect on small business or in preparation of an economic impact analysis
    Not applicable. The requirements of this rule package establish permit processing procedures that are implemented by the Department and affect Department staff, not the permit applicants.
    Effect on Small Business
    None, the requirements of this rule package affect the Department not the permit applicants.
    The Small Business Regulatory Coordinator may be contacted at SmallBusiness@dnr.state.wi.us , or by calling (608) 266-1959.
    Environmental Analysis
    The Department has made a preliminary determination that adoption of the proposed rules would not involve significant adverse environmental effects and would not need an environmental analysis under ch. NR 150 , Wis. Adm. Code. However, based on comments received, an environmental analysis may be prepared before proceeding. This analysis would summarize the Department's consideration of the impacts of the proposal and any reasonable alternatives.
    Fiscal Estimate Summary
    The Department's tentative determination is that proposed Rule Package 6 will not have an economic impact, and we do not anticipate any entity will be economically affected. The requirements of this rule package establish permit processing procedures that are implemented by the Department and affect the Department staff, not the permit applicants. The solicitation notice for comments on the economic impact analysis was posted on November 4, 2013. The Department has not received any comments or requests for information about Rule Package 6.
    Agency Contact
    Paul W. Luebke, PH
    Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
    Bureau of Water Quality WQ/3
    101 South Webster Street
    P.O. Box 7921
    Madison, WI 53707-7921
    Paul.Luebke@wisconsin.gov .
    STATE OF WISCONSIN
    DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION
    DOA-2049 (R03/2012)
    Division of Executive Budget and Finance
    101 East Wilson Street, 10th Floor
    P.O. Box 7864
    Madison, WI 53707-7864
    FAX: (608) 267-0372
    ADMINISTRATIVE RULES
    Fiscal Estimate & Economic Impact Analysis
    1. Type of Estimate and Analysis
    X Original   Updated   Corrected
    2. Administrative Rule Chapter, Title and Number
    NR 200, NR 201, NR 203, and NR 205
    3. Subject
    Regulatory requirements for the processing of WPDES permits
    4. Fund Sources Affected
    5. Chapter 20, Stats. Appropriations Affected
    GPR   FED   PRO   PRS   SEG   SEG-S
    None
    6. Fiscal Effect of Implementing the Rule
    X No Fiscal Effect
    Indeterminate
    Increase Existing Revenues
    Decrease Existing Revenues
    Increase Costs
    Could Absorb Within Agency's Budget
    Decrease Cost
    7. The Rule Will Impact the Following (Check All That Apply)
    State's Economy
    Local Government Units
    Specific Businesses/Sectors
    Public Utility Rate Payers
    Small Businesses (if checked, complete Attachment A)
    8. Would Implementation and Compliance Costs Be Greater Than $20 million?
    Yes   X No
    9. Policy Problem Addressed by the Rule
    The primary purpose of these rule additions and amendments is to establish clear regulatory requirements for the processing of WPDES permit. In a letter dated July 18, 2011, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) identified 75 potential issues with Wisconsin's statutory and regulatory authority for the WPDES permit program. EPA directed the department to either make rule changes to address this inconsistency or obtain a statement from the Attorney General's Office verifying that the existing rule is consistent with federal regulations. The department believes adoption of these rule changes (referred to as Rule Package 6) will address EPA's concerns for 13 of the issues.
    10. Summary of the businesses, business sectors, associations representing business, local governmental units, and individuals that may be affected by the proposed rule that were contacted for comments.
    We do not anticipate that any of these groups will be economically affected by this rule package.
    11. Identify the local governmental units that participated in the development of this EIA.
    Not applicable.
    12. Summary of Rule's Economic and Fiscal Impact on Specific Businesses, Business Sectors, Public Utility Rate Payers, Local Governmental Units and the State's Economy as a Whole (Include Implementation and Compliance Costs Expected to be Incurred)
    Not applicable. The requirements of this rule package are directed at the WDNR, and will not affect permit applicants.
    13. Benefits of Implementing the Rule and Alternative(s) to Implementing the Rule
    The department will be in compliance with EPA regulations.
    14. Long Range Implications of Implementing the Rule
    The department will be in compliance with EPA regulations and will maintain its regulatory authority for WPDES permit programs.
    15. Compare With Approaches Being Used by Federal Government
    The department rules will be consistent with existing federal regulations with the revisions contained in this rule package. No proposed federal regulations are applicable; none were mentioned in EPA's letter containing the 75 issues the department needed to address.
    16. Compare With Approaches Being Used by Neighboring States (Illinois, Iowa, Michigan and Minnesota )
    All the other U.S. EPA Region 5 states (Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota and Ohio) are subject to the U.S. EPA regulations that are delegated to the states for implementation. Wisconsin's rules for permit processing and other permit issuance procedures should essentially be the same as the other states.
    17. Contact Name
    18. Contact Phone Number
    Paul W. Luebke
    (608) 266-0234
    This document can be made available in alternate formats to individuals with disabilities upon request.