Article Summary –
The Wisconsin Supreme Court unanimously ruled that Governor Tony Evers overstepped his partial veto authority by altering a non-appropriation bill to fund a literacy program, allowing the Republican-controlled Legislature to withhold $50 million intended for childhood literacy education. Governor Evers argues that the funds have been unjustly withheld for two years, hindering educational initiatives, and he has been urging Republicans to release the money before it expires. The decision affirmed the separation of powers, with Republican leaders supporting the court’s ruling and Democrats and educators criticizing the obstruction as detrimental to public education.
In a significant decision, the Wisconsin Supreme Court ruled on June 25 that Democratic Gov. Tony Evers exceeded his veto authority, allowing Republicans to withhold funds meant for childhood literacy education. The court unanimously found that Evers improperly edited 2023 Wisconsin Act 100, merging two separate appropriations.
Justice Rebecca Grassl Bradley clarified that the state Constitution restricts the governor’s partial veto to appropriation bills only, emphasizing that Evers’ actions overstepped these boundaries. The Joint Committee on Finance (JCF) was within its rights to retain the funds, the court acknowledged.
Evers, in a statement, remained firm in his commitment to Wisconsin education, criticizing the Republicans for blocking nearly $50 million intended for reading improvements for two years. He has attempted to compel the release of these funds through litigation.
The 2023 Wisconsin Act 20, prior to the controversy, established an Office of Literacy under the DPI to organize a literacy coaching program for young students and manage literacy grants. Evers criticized the complexity of divided appropriations, advocating for consolidated funding to better address Wisconsin’s literacy needs.
Despite Evers’ efforts, Republicans withheld the funds, prompting a lawsuit that led to the court’s ruling. Evers appealed for Republicans to release the nearly $50 million before it expires, labeling further delay as irresponsible.
Republican Senate President Mary Felzkowski hailed the decision, asserting Evers sought to unduly extend his veto power. She emphasized the importance of maintaining governmental power balances.
The decision partially overturned an earlier ruling by Dane County Circuit Judge Stephen Ehlke, who had deemed Evers’ partial veto legitimate but did not force fund release, noting the legislature had designated funds for JCF’s discretionary use.
The Wisconsin Education Association Council criticized Republicans, condemning their refusal to distribute the funds crucial for public school educators. They accused politicians of political maneuvering at the expense of educational funding, urging bipartisan cooperation for the benefit of students.
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