The Wisconsin Institute for Law & Liberty (WILL) and IRG Action Fund have launched a substantial public awareness campaign advocating for two constitutional amendments on the August 13th primary election ballot. These amendments aim to shift control over the allocation of federal funds from the governor to the Wisconsin Legislature, reinforcing the legislative branch’s power over financial decisions.
Currently, the governor of Wisconsin can accept and allocate federal funds without legislative approval, a practice that WILL and IRG Action argue bypasses the constitutional “power of the purse” vested in the legislature. The organizations believe that these amendments are crucial for maintaining proper checks and balances in state government and limiting the power of the executive branch.
The proposed amendments summarized in layman’s terms and actual terms:
Question 1: This amendment would establish that the Wisconsin Legislature cannot delegate its sole authority to determine appropriations.
Question 2: This amendment would prohibit the governor from spending federal funds received on behalf of the state without legislative approval, either through a joint resolution or as provided by legislative rule.
WILL and IRG Action encourage voters to vote YES on these amendments, highlighting several key benefits:
1. Prevention of Uncontrolled State Spending: By requiring legislative approval for federal fund expenditures, the amendments aim to prevent the governor from making spending decisions that could lead to increased state taxes once federal funds are depleted. This would also protect state taxpayers from bearing the financial burden of ongoing spending commitments initiated without legislative oversight.
2. Increased Accountability: The amendments would ensure that financial decision-making is accountable to the public, as the legislature, representing the people, would oversee spending decisions. This closer oversight is seen as a means to hold politicians responsible for their financial choices.
3. Promotion of Government Collaboration: With the current system allowing the governor to spend federal funds without legislative input, there is a lack of collaboration between branches of government. The amendments would require both the executive and legislative branches to work together, promoting more balanced and well-considered financial decisions.
Opponents of the amendments argue that they could slow down the allocation of funds, particularly in emergencies, and disrupt the efficiency of decision-making processes. However, WILL and IRG Action maintain that the benefits of increased oversight and accountability outweigh these concerns.
As the August 13th vote approaches and voters are voting early, Wisconsin voters are encouraged to carefully consider the potential impacts of these amendments and participate in the decision-making process. The outcome will determine whether these proposed changes to the Wisconsin Constitution will be implemented, altering the current dynamics of state government spending authority.
To find your polling location, learn how to register to vote or learn how to vote absentee, visit myvote.wi.gov
