As 2020 comes to a close, it is once again time to start thinking about Wisconsin’s biennial budget for 2021-2023. While development of this budget is nearly a year long process, this fall is a crucial time for public opinion to influence Governor Evers’ priorities. Funding allocated by the budget essentially outlines which issues will take precedence for the state of Wisconsin. Fill out the form to join our budget team here.
In this budget cycle, big decisions will be made regarding issues we consider influential to the health and wellbeing of Wisconsinites. Here are some budget items to keep an eye on:
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Funding for the I-94 expansion project. This is a plan we strongly oppose and are hoping to see this money spent repairing existing infrastructure instead.
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Funding for transit walking and biking. Clean, reliable transportation is essential to the well-being of Wisconsinites and our environment.
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Funding for the DNR and the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Fund. These initiatives allow for more access to Wisconsin’s public lands and prioritize resilience against climate change.
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Funding for Focus on Energy. This will help reduce energy use while increasing that of clean, renewable energy.
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Funding for clean water. Many communities in Wisconsin are still struggling with threats from factory farm pollution, PFAS, lead pipes, and more. This has to change.
The Wisconsin state budget for 2021-2023 is still in its preliminary stages, however this is the most important time for members of the community to take action. We want to see Governor Evers prioritize clean air, clean water, public transportation, and public lands through action by making these some of the top issues to receive funding.
*This timeline is an assumption based on past budget processes.
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November/December: Agency budget requests
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December/January: Governor Evers’ draft budget
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March: Public input: hearings and written comment
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Late spring: Joint Finance Committee (JFC)’s draft budget
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Early summer: Legislature votes on budget
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July: Governor Evers approves, vetoes or line-item vetoes the budget
To make this happen, we need your help and your voice. There are lots of opportunities in the next few months to get involved in the state budget process. Depending on how much time you have and how willing you are to share your opinion, there are a wide range of options to get involved. From letter-writing campaigns to attending virtual meetings with elected officials, there is a way for everyone to take action.
If you are interested in helping us promote the health and wellbeing of Wisconsinites and our environment, please fill out this form.
This new budget is an opportunity to fund a better future for Wisconsin. This future could include clean water and air, a reliable public transportation system, and concrete action to combat climate change. Now is the time to come together and fight for a Wisconsin budget that prioritizes its environment and people.
By Kaden Mettel