Below is a plain-language look at the two questions appearing on Wisconsin’s August 13 primary ballot. Many thanks to the person, wishing to remain anonymous, who sent these to us!
If you have questions about the Questions before you vote, email us at diane@appletonwi.org or see these posts:
- WILL, IRG Urge Yes Votes on Questions 1 and 2
- Badger Institute Launches Initiative to Help Explain August Constitutional Amendment Votes
Question 1
} Shall Article IV, Section 35(1) of the Wisconsin Constitution be created to provide that the Legislature may not delegate its sole power to determine how moneys shall be appropriated?
In other words: Do you think the legislature should take part in deciding how taxpayer dollars are spent in Wisconsin?
Yes vote – the legislature should take part in deciding how taxpayer dollars are spent. The legislature shouldn’t give away the “power of the purse” to the Governor.
No vote – the legislature should not take part in how taxpayer dollars are spent and you are okay with the legislature delegating the power of the purse to the Governor.
Question 2
} Shall Article IV, Section 35 (2) of the Wisconsin Constitution be created to prohibit the Governor from allocating any federal moneys the Governor accepts on behalf of the state without the approval of the Legislature by joint resolution or as provided by legislative rule?
In other words: Do you think the Governor should be required to have legislative approval for the spending of federal money that is sent to Wisconsin?
Yes vote – the legislature should approve all spending of federal money that is sent to Wisconsin.
No vote – the Governor should continue to spend federal money that is sent to Wisconsin without legislative approval.
