Press Release

Legislation making the process of transferring farm implements after death more efficient has been passed by the State Senate. The legislation is authored by Sen. Joan Ballweg.

Currently, beneficiaries who are receiving farm implements are required to go through probate, an often lengthy formal legal process. All equipment used to continue production is held until that process is completed.

“Any disruption in the agricultural cycle can leave farmers in a tight position with lost production and revenues,” said Ballweg. “This legislation will make it easier for small farmers who often transfer farm implements between family members.”

Senate Bill 893 allows farm implements to be transferred through a process called Transfer on Death (TOD). Through written designation of a beneficiary and witnesses, TOD can bypass the need for the court to get involved.

This legislation is supported by 17 agriculture related associations across Wisconsin. It now heads to the Assembly and then moves on to the governor to be signed into law.