Assembly approves wetlands bill

MADISON, Wis. (AP) - The state Assembly has passed a bill that would help developers win wetland construction permits.

The plans would detail how developers would offset damage they might cause by working to restore or enhance other wetlands, giving builders another way to convince the Department of Natural Resources they deserve a permit.

Republicans say the bill would help businesses expand. Passing it has been one of their key goals this legislative session. Environmentalists, though, counter the bill would encourage the DNR to loosen its stance that applicants focus on avoiding or minimizing wetland damage.

The Assembly passed the measure on a voice vote after only about half-an-hour of debate Wednesday. The Senate passed the bill last week. It now goes to Republican Gov. Scott Walker for his signature. Walker supports the bill.