The Governor's partial veto power to create or alter taxes on the ballot Nov 3
Sep 12, 2026, 7:51 AM CT
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On November 3, Wisconsin voters will cast their ballots on a legislatively referred constitutional amendment known as Senate Joint Resolution 116 (SJR 116). If approved, this amendment would significantly alter the Wisconsin Constitution by prohibiting the governor from using their partial veto power to create, increase, or authorize the creation or increase of any tax or fee. Currently, Wisconsin's governor possesses one of the most robust line-item veto powers in the nation, allowing them to reject specific provisions of appropriation bills. This proposed measure seeks to place a new check on that executive authority.
The path to the ballot required consecutive legislative approvals, beginning with Assembly Joint Resolution 112, which passed both chambers in early 2024. This was followed by the passage of SJR 116 in early 2026, with the Senate voting 18-15 and the Assembly voting 54-41. The voting patterns revealed a stark partisan division. Republicans unanimously supported the measure across both legislative sessions, arguing that the amendment is a necessary step to restore balance between the executive and legislative branches. Democratic lawmakers voted unanimously against it, expressing concerns that the measure would limit the governor's ability to correct underfunded priorities.
Supporters of the amendment, including the lead author Senator Chris Kapenga and groups like Americans for Prosperity, emphasize that the amendment is crucial for accountability and tax protection. They point to past executive actions as examples of overreach, asserting that the governor should not act as a legislator. On the other hand, opponents like Senator Chris Larson argue that the amendment strips the executive of a vital tool needed to address legislative shortfalls, particularly when it comes to funding essential public services like education. This upcoming referendum marks the latest chapter in a century-long debate over the scope of gubernatorial veto powers in Wisconsin.
Adam Hess has been involved in radio broadcasting since 1990, with many of those years spent on the air at WRCO FM in Richland Center. Currently, Adam hosts the Weekend Wake-up and Prime Mover Saturdays on WRCO FM, jumps in and helps out with news duties, handles Social Media duties for WRCO and WRCE, and is the Director of Technology at a Southwest Wisconsin School District. Reach him at adam.hess@civicmedia.us.
