Vindictive Republicans Vote to Limit Governor's Powers...Again

MADISON – During today’s Senate floor period, Republicans approved Senate Joint Resolution 59 by a party-line vote. This proposed constitutional amendment would limit a Governor’s partial veto authority. Republicans introduced SJR 59 as a result of Governor Tony Evers’ partial veto action, which ultimately provided $100 million in more funding for Wisconsin public schools.

The passage of SJR 59 is the Republican’s latest effort to obstruct Governor Evers’ ability to carry out the duties of the Governor and the will of the Wisconsin people. Legislation passed by Republicans in the December lame-duck session limited the powers of Governor Evers and Attorney General Josh Kaul.

In response to the Republican’s decision, Senator Jeff Smith (D-Brunswick) released the following statement:

“Vindictive Republicans chose to go after the Governor rather than fulfilling Wisconsin’s constitutional obligation to provide an equal education for all of our students. The public deserves an answer from Republicans for scrapping Gov. Evers “Fair Funding for Our Future” Plan.

“Governor Evers did the right thing by putting Wisconsin students first. Governor Evers has built a career advocating for Wisconsin students – something Republicans know very little about after making unprecedented cuts to Wisconsin’s public schools. We can’t let these political games get in the way of properly investing in our children and our state’s future workforce.”

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The 31st Senate District includes all of Buffalo and Pepin counties and portions of Trempealeau, Pierce, Dunn,
Eau Claire and Jackson counties and very small portions of Chippewa and St. Croix counties.