Budget negotiations between Governor Tony Evers and Republican legislative leaders have halted, with both sides acknowledging a stalemate despite meeting frequently over the last month. This week, Governor Evers released a statement that talks had reached a standstill, even after he agreed to include a Republican-backed income tax cut. He pointed to disagreements over funding for K-12 education, child care, and the University of Wisconsin System as key sticking points.
Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu and JFC Co-chair Howard Marklein stated that the Governor’s proposals exceeded what they believe taxpayers can afford. Senate republicans are struggling to agree with one another on a path forward with the budget. Assembly Speaker Robin Vos and Co-chair Mark Born indicated that while discussions could continue, a deal remains out of reach for now.
As the end-of-month deadline to finalize the budget approaches, both sides are facing increased pressure. Democratic leaders criticized the breakdown in talks, warning that the disagreements could add uncertainty for families and communities already grappling with rising costs and strained services. Meanwhile, the Joint Finance Committee continues working on remaining portions of the budget, meeting on Thursday in an executive session to vote on motions for the following agencies: Environmental Improvement Fund Ethics Commission, Legislature, Financial Institutions, Board of Commissioners of Public Lands, Educational Communications Board, Medical College of Wisconsin, Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation, Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation. Below is a snapshot of the bills Fox City continues to track.
Click here to view the updated list of bills.
by Jim Steineke, Government Affairs & Advocacy