How the Budget is Made

Article VIII, Section 2 of the Wisconsin Constitution provides that "no money shall be paid out of the treasury except in pursuance of an appropriation by law." As lawmakers, it is the Legislature's duty to improve upon the Governor's recommendations, collect public input, draft a plan, and vote on the state budget. 

We had months of intensive research on the priorities that matter to Wisconsinites. We communicated with thousands of people at meetings, public hearings, and listening sessions who understand the needs of everyday Wisconsinites. We communicated with thousands of people at meetings, public hearings and listening sessions. We have responded to thousands of emails, phone calls and other constituent contacts with their feedback about the state budget. This feedback was provided from Wisconsinites with experience in every industry and all walks of life.

While each budget cycle is somewhat different, the process outlined in the image to the left is based on the procedures followed for the 2025-27 biennial budget process.

The legislature has finished writing the budget, passed the budget, and we will now send it to the Governor to sign it into law.

More information regarding the extensive budget process can be found in the Legislative Fiscal Bureau's paper on the state budget process.

JFC Public Hearing in West Allis

Governor's budget address

Senator Marklein with the Platteville Fire Department

Senate Majority Leader LeMahieu at a press conference after the Governor's budget address