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AJR 127

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

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Scott Allen and 27 co-sponsors

Constitutional amendment prohibiting Wisconsin governors from using line-item vetoes to create or raise taxes, shifting budget power toward the legislature.

Referred to committee on Rules
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · AJR 127

Legislative bill overview

AJR 127 proposes a constitutional amendment to prohibit Wisconsin's governor from using the partial veto power to create new taxes or increase existing taxes and fees. This would be a formal amendment requiring voter approval and represents a significant constraint on executive budgetary authority.

Why is this important

The partial veto (also called "line-item veto") is a powerful executive tool that allows governors to remove or modify specific provisions in legislation without rejecting entire bills. Restricting this power specifically for tax matters would reshape the balance of power in budget negotiations between the governor and legislature, potentially limiting executive flexibility during fiscal challenges or budget disputes.

Potential points of contention

  • Executive flexibility vs. legislative power: Supporters argue this prevents governors from unilaterally raising taxes; opponents counter that it removes a legitimate tool for responsible fiscal management and may force governors to veto entire bills instead
  • Practical enforceability: Questions exist about how "creating or increasing" taxes would be defined—would technical adjustments or closing tax loopholes count? Ambiguity could lead to litigation
  • Partisan implications: The amendment's timing and sponsor composition suggest partisan motivation; it may advantage one party's legislative approach over another's governing philosophy

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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