Section 224.55 - [Effective 1/1/2025] Support accounts for individuals with disabilities(1) DEFINITIONS. In this section:(a) "ABLE account" means an account established under an ABLE program.(b) "ABLE program" means a qualified ABLE program under section 529A of the Internal Revenue Code.(2) DEPARTMENT TO ESTABLISH ABLE PROGRAM. (a)Implementation directly or by agreement. The department shall implement and administer an ABLE program, either directly or by entering into a formal or informal agreement with another state, or with an entity representing an alliance of states, to establish an ABLE program or otherwise administer ABLE program services for the residents of this state.(b)Review of other states' partnership programs. The department shall review section 529A ABLE state partnership programs offered by other states and, no later than the first day of the 7th month beginning after the effective date of this paragraph.... [LRB inserts date], determine whether, as the best option for Wisconsin residents, the department will implement the ABLE program under par. (a) directly or by entering into an agreement. (c)Agreement terms. An agreement under par. (a) may require the party contracting with the department, in addition to providing any other services, to do any of the following: 1. Develop and implement an ABLE program in accordance with all requirements under section 529A of the Internal Revenue Code, and modify this ABLE program as necessary for participants in the ABLE program to qualify for the federal income tax benefits or treatment provided under section 529A of the Internal Revenue Code and rules adopted under section 529A.2. Engage the services of vendors on a contractual basis for rendering professional and technical assistance and advice in developing marketing plans and promotional materials to publicize the ABLE program.3. Work with organizations with expertise in supporting people with disabilities and their families in administering the agreement and ensuring accessibility of the ABLE program for people with disabilities.4. Take any other action necessary to implement and administer the ABLE program.(d)Information about ABLE accounts. The department shall include on its website information concerning ABLE accounts, including current information on each state that offers ABLE accounts, information on how residents of this state may participate in those ABLE accounts, and links to resources to provide information about ABLE accounts in those states. The department shall also provide such information in written materials it prepares about ABLE accounts. The department shall provide a link, on its website, to the website of the department of agriculture, trade and consumer protection to facilitate the filing of complaints related to ABLE accounts.(3) CONFIDENTIALITY. The department shall keep confidential any personal and financial information maintained by the department relating to an ABLE account.(4) FUNDING; RULES. (a) All expenses incurred by the department under this section shall be paid from the appropriation under s. 20.144 (1) (g).(b) The department may promulgate rules to implement and administer this section.Added by Acts 2024 ch, 267,s 138m, eff. 1/1/2025.