The News: The Wisconsin Institute for Law & Liberty (WILL) will participate in oral arguments before the Wisconsin Supreme Court Monday in Bartlett v. Evers, an original action against Governor Tony Evers’ use of the partial veto on the 2019-2020 state budget.
When: 9:45 AM on April 20, 2020
Why it Matters: This is a critical constitutional lawsuit to determine the extent of the Governor's veto power in Wisconsin. With looming battles between the Legislature and the Governor, the extent of executive power and the separation of powers will be front and center in determining the outcome of important disputes.
Background: WILL filed an original action to the Wisconsin Supreme Court on behalf of 3 Wisconsin taxpayers on July 31, 2019. The complaint argues that Governor Tony Evers violated the law when he used the partial veto on the 2019-20 state budget to fundamentally change several policies enacted by the legislature. Under the Wisconsin Constitution, the governor may veto appropriation bills in whole or “in part.” That is, and will remain the case barring a constitutional amendment. The challenge before the Court is over Governor Evers’ specific vetoes that, in effect, created new laws never voted on by the state legislature.
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