March 2025 Legislative Update

2025-26 Wisconsin Legislature Session is Off to a Slow Start
Gov. Evers gave his fourth biennial budget address on February 18, unveiling his 2025-27 executive budget. Immediately after his speech, Republican legislative leaders are ready to start over and craft their own budget. Before that, however, the majority leaders plan to introduce their own tax relief proposal using the state’s surplus. Assembly Majority Leader Tyler August has said Republicans could hold up adopting a new state budget if the GOP tax cut plan isn’t first signed into law by Gov. Evers.

And to delay the budget process further, Republicans are unlikely to advance the tax proposal until after the state’s April 1st Supreme Court Election.

The Joint Finance Committee’s typical budget timeline has also been slightly delayed, with plans to hold public hearings around the state in April instead of March. In addition to ongoing debate, policymakers are monitoring federal actions and their potential impact on the state budget. With many moving parts and ongoing disagreements, it will be a long few months before the state’s budget is finalized and takes effect on July 1.

ADVOCATE IN APRIL
The Joint Finance Committee will be touring the state for their budget listening sessions. The schedule is linked and WPRA encourages all members that can attend and provide testimony in support of reauthorization of the KNSP! WPRA has created materials to help members with their message and encourage local Park & Rec departments to share about the impact Knowles-Nelson has made in their community!

WPRA Capitol Day – Make Your Voice Heard! APRIL 23rd
Join us in Madison at the Wisconsin State Capitol for WPRA Capitol Day, where your passion for parks and recreation meets real legislative action! This exciting day will give you an insider’s look at key policy priorities shaping the future of parks, trails, and recreational spaces across Wisconsin. Gain insight into the policies shaping our communities and act by meeting directly with state legislators to share why parks and recreation matters.

Your voice makes a difference—register today and help support the future of Wisconsin’s outdoor spaces!

Registration is free, just rsvp via this link.