Wisconsin Republicans Push Amendments to Limit Governor’s Power Over Federal Funds

Wisconsin Republicans are advocating for constitutional amendments that would restrict the governor’s authority to unilaterally spend federal funds. This move is a reaction to the billions of dollars managed by Democratic Governor Tony Evers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Evers allocated most of the federal money towards small businesses and economic development, which upset Republicans who believe the Legislature should have oversight on such expenditures. The proposed amendments, if passed, would apply to any future federal funds received by the state without specific spending directives, often related to emergencies or disasters.

Democrats and other opponents view the amendments as a legislative power grab that could hinder the governor’s ability to respond swiftly to emergencies. Julie Keown-Bomar, executive director of Wisconsin Farmers Union, expressed concerns that the amendments would further disrupt Wisconsin’s government functionality.

Opponents argue that the amendments would exacerbate partisanship and decrease the government’s responsiveness in crisis situations. The amendments require voter approval in the August 13 primary election to be added to the state constitution.

Republicans argue that these amendments are necessary to increase accountability and transparency in the handling of federal funds. Republican state Sen. Howard Marklein, a co-sponsor, stated that the changes would ensure greater legislative oversight.

The amendments have already passed the GOP-controlled Legislature twice, as required by law, and need voter approval to be enacted. This initiative is part of a broader strategy by Republicans to circumvent Governor Evers’ veto power, as he has vetoed more bills than any other governor in Wisconsin’s history.

The push to curb the governor’s spending power is set against a backdrop of ongoing disputes between Republicans and Governor Evers over legislative authority. In July, Evers won a Wisconsin Supreme Court case challenging the Legislature’s budget committee’s control over conservation program spending.

The debate over the governor’s authority to manage federal funds dates back to 1931, with renewed scrutiny during the Great Recession and intensified calls for change during the COVID-19 pandemic when Wisconsin received $5.7 billion in federal aid.

The amendments propose that the Legislature cannot delegate its spending authority and that the governor cannot spend federal money without legislative approval. If passed, the Legislature could establish rules for handling federal funds, potentially varying them based on the governor’s identity or the nature of the funds.

The proposals are supported by conservative groups and business lobbyists, while opposed by voting rights groups, the Wisconsin Democratic Party, and liberal organizations. Early voting for the primary begins on Tuesday and runs through August 11, with locations and times varying across the state.