This law specifically addresses the dangers of “re-airbagging,” where damaged, counterfeit, or improperly salvaged parts are used in vehicle repairs
Madison, Wis.—Senate Bill 537 is now 2025 Wisconsin Act 97 after Gov. Tony Evers signed it into law last Friday, March 13. This law specifically addresses the dangers of “re-airbagging,” where damaged, counterfeit, or improperly salvaged parts are used in vehicle repairs.
This is the 40th state with similar laws passed, aimed at strengthening safety regulations against nonfunctional and counterfeit airbags.
Key Aspects of the Act
Prohibitions
The law makes it illegal to import, manufacture, sell, offer for sale, install, reinstall, or distribute any previously deployed, nonfunctional, or counterfeit airbag.
Definitions
• Counterfeit Airbag: An airbag or component that uses an unauthorized mark similar to a genuine manufacturer.
• Nonfunctional Airbag: Includes previously deployed/damaged airbags, those with electrical faults, or those containing parts intended to mislead the owner.
Penalties
• Initial violations are punishable by a fine of up to $5,000, imprisonment for up to one year, or both.
• Felony Graduations: Second or subsequent violations can be charged as a Class I felony.
• If a violation results in bodily harm, it is a Class H felony; great bodily harm is a Class G felony; and death is a Class F felony.
Exceptions
The law does not apply to law enforcement vehicles, individuals who are unaware they are installing a counterfeit/nonfunctional part, and certain authorized salvage/disposal actions by insurance companies.
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