The Wisconsin Supreme Court will approach the end of its term on June 30 and several major decisions are expected—ranging from the enforceability of the state’s 1849 abortion law to another high-profile case involving veto powers, state funding, and agency authority. These rulings could significantly reshape the balance of power in state government and set new policy direction on issues like literacy funding and legislative oversight particularly of Wisconsin’s Department of Natural Resources.
Meanwhile, the Legislature’s budget-writing committee received an update on the state’s revenue estimates. The Department of Revenue projects Wisconsin will collect about $355 million less than previously expected over the next two years. While that is a manageable shortfall given the state’s current surplus, the estimates signal tightening conditions ahead as lawmakers debate tax cuts, school funding, and other budget proposals. Many members of the Joint Finance Committee are hesitant to fund new programs in this year’s budget. The Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu and Assembly Speaker Robin Vos did meet with Governor Evers earlier this week to discuss the budget, but the committee has yet to schedule a hearing to begin considering budget motions.
As fiscal realities shift and legal rulings potentially reshape state authority, stakeholders across sectors should be prepared for new changes in the months ahead. We will continue monitoring developments closely to help keep you informed. Below is a snapshot of the bills Fox City is tracking.
Click here to view the updated list of bills.
by Jim Steineke, Government Affairs & Advocacy