As February begins, the Wisconsin Legislature is off to a slower start than usual. With narrower majorities in both chambers, lawmakers are keeping their strategies under wraps, making bipartisan cooperation unlikely. This approach will shape the upcoming state budget process, which officially begins when Governor Tony Evers delivers his Budget Address on February 18. His proposal includes an $80 million investment in Wisconsin’s farmers and food systems, alongside concerns about the Trump administration’s trade policies. While Republican legislators are expected to oppose much of Evers’ budget, the governor’s past use of partial vetoes—such as extending school funding through 2425—may shift negotiations. The Joint Finance Committee will soon hold listening sessions across the state, allowing constituents to weigh in on budget priorities.
Beyond the budget, Wisconsin’s February 18 primary will narrow the race for State Superintendent of Public Instruction, with the top two candidates advancing to the April 1 general election. The April 1st election is also a pivotal Wisconsin Supreme Court race between Judges Susan Crawford and Brad Schimel. Whoever wins will determine the court’s ideological balance, with significant outside spending expected.
Legislation impacting the Fox Cities continues to circulate, though fewer bills than in previous sessions have been formally introduced and assigned bill numbers. We are closely monitoring key proposals and will provide updates as measures gain traction in the Legislature.
SB 36 (Sen. Jacque) – Creates an income tax exemption for cash tips paid to employees.
AB 17/SB 21 (Rep. Sortwell/Sen. James) – Establishes a tax credit for employee ownership conversion costs, a capital gains deduction for business transfers to employee ownership, and an employee ownership education and outreach program.
LRB-1028 (Rep. Steffen) – Recognizes nuclear power and fusion energy as clean energy sources critical to meeting Wisconsin’s energy demands. Declares the legislature’s commitment to expanding nuclear power, developing nuclear technologies, and investing in fusion energy.
LRB-1296 (Rep. Bare) – Expands the homestead income tax credit to provide additional relief for homeowners.
LRB 0441 (Rep. Allen)– Referendum questions to include how much property taxes would increase for the median-valued single-family home for certain referenda that affect property taxes.
LRB 1318 (Sen. Jacque)– The sales and use tax exemption for electricity and natural gas sold for residential use.
by The Welch Group