In Wisconsin, a recent Supreme Court decision has allowed Governor Tony Evers to expand education funding through a controversial use of the partial veto, which could significantly impact state taxpayers and the quality of education.
1. Reading Proficiency Alarm: Only one-third of Wisconsin fourth graders are reading at grade level, raising concerns about educational quality despite increased funding.
2. Governor's Veto Power: Governor Evers utilized a "Vanna White veto" to alter a recently passed education funding bill, effectively extending additional funding for 400 years by changing wording in the bill.
3. Court's Ruling: The Wisconsin Supreme Court ruled in favor of Evers in a 4-3 decision, allowing this extensive use of the partial veto, which some view as an abuse of power.
4. Criticism of the Decision: Dissenting Justice Brian Hagedorn characterized the ruling as “silliness,” arguing it undermines the legislative process and enables future governors to create laws unilaterally.
5. Historical Context: This method of vetoing legislation isn't new; previous governors have used it. However, the extent of Evers's changes is unparalleled, raising concerns about authoritarian governance.
6. Future Implications: With higher taxes potentially on the horizon to finance education (through property taxes), Wisconsin residents may face increased financial burdens due to this maneuver.
7. Call for Constitutional Amendment: Some Republicans are exploring ways to limit the governor's veto power through amending the state constitution to prevent such extensive changes in the future.
Wisconsin's educational challenges coupled with the recent expansion of the governor's veto powers indicate a significant shift in state governance. With the potential for increased property taxes and a legislature constrained by the ruling, there is a pressing need for taxpayers and lawmakers to reconsider the balance of power in the state.
https://spectator.org/wisconsin-is-now-an-authoritarian-state/
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