http://newiprogressive.com/images/stories/S5/wi-assembly-hearing-s5.jpgCourt Decision in Evers v. Marklein will stop committees such as Joint Finance from unconstitutionally obstructing basic government functions and operations.

MADISON — Gov. Tony Evers today responded to the Wisconsin Supreme Court’s 5-2 decision in Evers v. Marklein II. The case, brought by Gov. Evers in 2023 against the Wisconsin State Legislature, argued Republican-controlled committees such as the Joint Committee for Review of Administrative Rules are unconstitutionally and unlawfully obstructing basic government functions and operations by indefinitely or temporarily blocking or suspending administrative rules.  

The Wisconsin Supreme Court today determined statutes giving a legislative committee ‘the power to pause, object to, or suspend administrative rules for varying lengths of time, both before and after promulgation’ are facially unconstitutional.  

Gov. Evers today released the following statement: 

“The people of Wisconsin expect state government to work—and work better—for them. For years, a small group of Republican lawmakers overstepped their power, holding rules hostage without explanation or action and causing gridlock across state government. It’s pretty simple—a handful of Republican lawmakers should not be able to single-handedly and indefinitely obstruct state agencies from doing the people’s work.

“Wisconsinites want to protect our constitutional checks and balances. Today’s Wisconsin Supreme Court decision ensures that no small group of lawmakers has the sole power to stymie the work of state government and go unchecked. This is an incredibly important decision that will ensure state government can do our important work efficiently and effectively to serve Wisconsinites across our state. 

“My promise to the people of Wisconsin is that I will always work to do the right thing and get things done. Ensuring that the Legislature is held accountable for following the law and our state’s constitution is a victory for the people of Wisconsin.”