Data Wonk: Wisconsin’s Legislative Committees Uniquely Powerful?

Legislative committees’ ability to veto executive actions without having to amend state statute is unique to Wisconsin.
Wisconsin Natural Resources Board approves purchase of 93 acres for 967K

The Natural Resources Board (NRB) has approved two land acquisitions by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR), securing public access to natural areas.
Texas Anti Conservation Group Opposed State Purchase Of Pelican River Forest

Group pushes the idea of ‘coordination’ to embolden local units of government to deny conservation projects.
Governor Visits Fox Lake For Clausen Park Project Groundbreaking

Knowles-Nelson Stewardship grant will fund improvements to lakefront park.
Leader of anti-conservation group speaks at timber conference sponsored by UW-Madison center

Keynote speaker at Great Lakes Timber Professionals Association conference alleged that conservation is a tool for the federal government to disenfranchise property owners.
Wisconsin Ranks Last In Per-Visit State Parks Funding

A Wisconsin Policy Forum report shows a steep decline in state funding for conservation, public lands, and the environment in Wisconsin.
Joint Finance Committee On Trial

Oral arguments before the WI Supreme Court focused on the separation of powers between Wisconsin’s executive and legislative branches, and the impact on the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program.
Wisconsin Supreme Court hears arguments in lawsuit against legislative veto of stewardship funds

The Wisconsin Supreme Court heard oral arguments in Gov. Tony Evers’ lawsuit centered around the Joint Committee on Finance’s authority to stop the spending of funds through the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program.
Wisconsin Supreme Court hears Evers’ lawsuit against GOP lawmakers

Gov. Evers alleges ‘committee vetoes’ used to block approved Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program projects are unconstitutional.
‘Anonymous objector’ gets his/her day in court

Rep. Deb Andraca stresses how continuing to demand government transparency could impact the future of conservation in Wisconsin.