Democratic Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers vetoed 41 bills, including a $3 billion tax cut, political loyalty pledges in higher education, and a proposed wolf hunt plan. Evers, governing alongside a Republican-dominated Legislature, has vetoed the most bills in Wisconsin history. He did approve $400,000 in Holocaust education spending and an increase in mental health crisis center prevalence. He signed a bill supporting Holocaust education in schools and another bill to increase mental health facilities across the state.
Evers vetoed a bill prohibiting universities from conditioning employment and admission decisions on diversity statements, as UW does not currently have such loyalty pledges. This bill was seen as part of an effort to restrict DEI initiatives on campuses. He also vetoed a bill allowing school boards to hire superintendents without state licenses, citing the need for standards in the school system. Furthermore, he signed a bill allowing fees for redacting open records content, which was opposed by media organizations and open records advocates.
The vetoed tax cut bill aimed to reduce state income tax rates, exclude retirement income from taxes, and cut tax collections by $3.2 billion over two years. Evers deemed this fiscally irresponsible, stating it would hinder the state’s ability to fund essential services. Instead, he signed a more limited bipartisan tax cut expanding the child care tax credit. The wolf hunt bill, also vetoed, aimed to set a firm population goal for the state’s wolf population. Evers argued that setting a numeric goal does not consider various complexities and micromanages the Department of Natural Resources.
Evers’ veto of the tax cut bill was met with criticism from Republicans who supported the measure. They argued that the tax cuts were essential to boosting the state’s economy and providing relief to taxpayers. However, Evers stood by his decision, stating that the bill was not financially responsible and would have impacted the state’s ability to meet its obligations. The bipartisan bill supporting Holocaust education was seen as a positive step in promoting awareness and understanding of historical atrocities among students statewide.
Overall, Evers’ actions reflect an ongoing political tension between the Democratic governor and the Republican-controlled Legislature. By vetoing bills that he deemed harmful or unnecessary, Evers has asserted his authority and commitment to fiscal responsibility. The bipartisan bills he signed, along with his support for education and mental health initiatives, demonstrate Evers’ dedication to improving the well-being of Wisconsin residents. While his decisions may not please all parties, Evers has made it clear that he is focused on serving the best interests of the state and its citizens.
