Republican Lawmakers Push for Constitutional Change to Limit Governor’s Veto Powers
MADISON (WKOW) — In a significant move, Republican state lawmakers are advocating for an amendment to Wisconsin’s constitution aimed at curbing the governor’s expansive partial veto powers, which have been in place for nearly a century. Currently, governors can veto specific numbers, words, and even punctuation in appropriation bills, fundamentally altering their meaning and implications.
Governor Tony Evers made headlines in 2023 when he utilized this power to secure a substantial increase in education funding. However, his veto faced scrutiny and legal challenges, culminating in the Wisconsin Supreme Court upholding his decision earlier this year. In response, several Republican legislators, including Sen. Cory Tomczyk (R-Mosinee) and Rep. Scott Allen (R-Waukesha), have introduced a resolution to amend the constitution, restricting governors to vetoing only full sections or reducing spending within appropriations bills.
Tomczyk asserted that the proposed change transcends partisan politics, stating, "It’s about keeping the power to make law where it should be—in the legislature." Allen echoed this sentiment, highlighting that previous voter initiatives aimed at limiting veto power have garnered support across party lines. He emphasized the reform as one rooted in "fairness, transparency, and respect for the democratic process."
To change the state constitution, the resolution must pass both chambers of the legislature in two consecutive sessions. Following this, the amendment will be presented to voters for approval or rejection. If successful, this initiative could reshape the balance of power in Wisconsin’s legislative process, reaffirming the role of the legislature in law-making over executive influence.
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