Wisconsin Republicans have affirmed their commitment to a proposed two-year state budget that includes a $32 million reduction in funding for the University of Wisconsin System. This decision comes despite threats from Democratic Governor Tony Evers to veto the entire budget if the cuts, specifically targeting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, remain. The budget does offer the university a chance to recoup the lost funds if it can demonstrate a plan to allocate the money towards workforce development initiatives instead of DEI programs.

Governor Evers has expressed his concerns about the proposed cuts, stating that he is reviewing the final budget language before deciding on vetoes. He has the authority to issue line-item vetoes but cannot increase funding through this method. Assembly Speaker Robin Vos expressed doubt that Evers would veto the entire budget solely due to the UW funding cuts, although he admitted to not having directly discussed the matter with the governor.

The state Senate is expected to vote on the budget proposal on Wednesday, followed by the Assembly. Both legislative bodies, controlled by Republicans, must pass identical versions of the budget before it reaches Governor Evers' desk. Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu and Speaker Vos have indicated that no significant revisions to the budget are anticipated, including the controversial UW funding cuts.

Beyond the university funding debate, other contentious issues within the budget include cuts to the state's school safety office, a move criticized by Attorney General Josh Kaul and school safety advocates. The office, established in 2018, provides safety grants to schools, operates a tip hotline, and offers training programs. Vos defended the funding reduction, citing the expiration of pandemic-era federal funding, and asserted that the office's core functions can be maintained with the allocated resources.

Further concerns have been raised regarding the discontinuation of a pandemic-era child care subsidy program. Advocates argue that this decision will negatively impact families in need and the state's economy. Despite a projected $7 billion budget surplus, Republicans have prioritized tax cuts, including a $3.5 billion income tax cut, over restoring funding for these programs. This tax cut has drawn criticism from Democrats who argue it disproportionately benefits wealthier individuals.

The budget also includes a $1 billion increase for K-12 public schools, secured by Governor Evers as part of a compromise with Republicans to augment state aid to Milwaukee and other local communities. It remains to be seen whether Governor Evers will sign the budget in its current form or utilize his veto power to address his concerns regarding the proposed cuts.