Wisconsin Assembly Bill AJR112

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/2/24
• Refer: 2/2/24
• Refer: 2/14/24
• Refer: 2/26/24
• Passed: 3/19/24

Caption

Prohibiting the governor from using the partial veto to create or increase any tax or fee (first consideration).

Impact

Should AJR112 be ratified, the amendment would alter Wisconsin's constitution to limit the governor's fiscal authority significantly, particularly in the budgeting process. This could lead to greater legislative control over tax and fee advancements, which proponents argue is necessary to maintain a balanced approach to state taxation. The change would require an adoption process involving two successive legislatures and a public vote, implying a thorough deliberative process that reflects a desire for a more democratized approach to taxation and state revenue generation.

Summary

AJR112 is a proposed constitutional amendment introduced to modify the powers of the governor in Wisconsin regarding the use of the partial veto. The amendment aims to prohibit the governor from creating or increasing any tax or fee through the exercise of partial veto authority, which is a significant change to the current framework. Currently, the governor's partial veto powers allow certain limitations, but the bill seeks to impose stricter controls specifically related to taxation and fees, aligning with a trend of increasing oversight of gubernatorial authority concerning fiscal governance.

Contention

The proposed amendment has sparked considerable debate among legislators and the public. Advocates for AJR112 point to the need for accountability and checks on executive power, arguing that unchecked authority can lead to arbitrary financial decisions affecting residents. Conversely, critics express concerns that such limitations could impede the governor's ability to respond dynamically to fiscal needs, potentially stifling necessary revenue growth or revisions during emergencies or unforeseen economic downturns. This contention reveals a broader philosophical debate over the appropriate balance of power and responsibility between the legislative and executive branches in fiscal matters.