Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

Wisconsin Senate Bill SJR116

Introduced
12/30/25  
Refer
12/30/25  
Refer
2/18/26  

Caption

To amend section 10 (1) (c) of article V of the constitution; Relating to: prohibiting the governor from using the partial veto to create or increase any tax or fee (second consideration).

Impact

If enacted, SJR116 would significantly impact the legislative landscape by requiring that tax increases or new taxes can only be approved through a full legislative process rather than allowing the governor to selectively veto portions of budget bills. This means that lawmakers would retain more control over taxation, potentially leading to more thorough deliberation and debate over fiscal policies. The resolution may also foster a greater sense of accountability in governance, as legislators would be directly responsible for any tax changes rather than allowing a single executive to influence such decisions unilaterally.

Summary

SJR116 is a proposed joint resolution that aims to prohibit the governor from utilizing the partial veto power to create or increase any tax or fee. This resolution addresses a critical aspect of state governance and fiscal policy, redefining the extent of executive power in relation to state taxation and revenue generation. By limiting the governor's ability to affect taxes through a partial veto, SJR116 seeks to ensure that any tax changes must go through the legislative process, thereby enhancing checks and balances in state fiscal matters.

Contention

There are notable points of contention regarding SJR116, particularly among those who view it as either a necessary reform or an unnecessary restriction on executive powers. Supporters argue that it fortifies the legislative authority and prevents any misuse of the partial veto that may lead to unfavorable tax policies driven by executive preference. Conversely, opponents might contend that it limits the flexibility of the governor in fiscal matters, especially in times of urgent financial needs. The debate surrounding this resolution encapsulates larger discussions about the balance of power between branches of government and the implications for future fiscal governance.

Companion Bills

WI AJR127

Crossfiled To amend section 10 (1) (c) of article V of the constitution; Relating to: prohibiting the governor from using the partial veto to create or increase any tax or fee (second consideration).

Previously Filed As

WI AJR127

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

WI HB472

(Constitutional Amendment) Revises Article VII of the Constitution of La. (OR -$139,000,000 GF RV See Note)

WI SB3219

Proposing Amendments To Article Vii, Sections 12 And 13, Of The Hawaii State Constitution.

WI HB2476

Proposing Amendments To Article Vii, Sections 12 And 13, Of The Hawaii State Constitution.

WI HCR3003

The threshold for approving a constitutional amendment.

WI HCR3003

A concurrent resolution to amend and reenact section 9 of article III and section 16 of article IV of the Constitution of North Dakota, relating to the threshold for approving a constitutional amendment.

WI HJR4212

Amending Article II, section 15 of the state Constitution concerning vacancies in partisan elective offices.

WI H3499

Constitutional amendment

WI SJR44

Constitutional amendment; increasing voter threshold for levy of tax and issuance of debt.

WI SCR4007

Requiring each resolution adopted by the legislative assembly proposing a constitutional amendment and each initiative petition and measure proposing a constitutional amendment to be comprised of a single subject.

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