In a split ruling, the liberal majority of the Wisconsin Supreme Court upheld Democratic Gov. Tony Evers’ veto in the 2023-25 budget that established annual increases in how much schools can spend per student for the next four centuries. The decision has sparked controversy, with Republicans viewing it as an expansion of Evers’ veto power and expressing concerns about the dismantling of the Legislature.
Evers welcomed the ruling, urging GOP lawmakers to approve the $3.4 billion in new state funding he allocated for education, citing a history of underfunding schools. The court’s decision was seen as a victory for Wisconsin’s kids and public schools in need of sustainable state support.
While some conservatives, including Justice Brian Hagedorn, criticized the ruling as unconstitutional and a violation of the Legislature’s authority, Evers and his supporters have emphasized the importance of investing in education. The ruling has ignited debate about the balance of power between the branches of government and the implications of Evers’ extended veto authority.
Moving forward, lawmakers have the option to address the veto in future budgets or through a referendum to limit the governor’s power. Despite concerns about potential property tax increases, Evers has proposed tying per-pupil spending increases to inflation in his upcoming budgets. The decision has polarized opinions, with some viewing it as a victory for education funding and others as a threat to taxpayers for generations to come.
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