MADISON –Today, Wisconsin Legislative Democrats introduced the Higher Education Powers Wisconsin package aimed at strengthening the state’s higher education system. The package includes several key bills:
Student Success and Retention – Invests in programs to support student achievement and retention at both UW campuses and Wisconsin’s Technical Colleges.
Tuition Promise – Guarantees tuition coverage for students from households at or below the state’s median income.
Restoring Shared Governance – Reestablishes shared decision-making authority for students and faculty within university governance structures.
Restoring Tenure – Reinstates tenure protections for faculty in the UW System.
Restoring Higher Education Collective Bargaining – Restores the rights of faculty and staff to organize and collectively bargain over wages, hours, and working conditions.
Rep. Jodi Emerson (D-Eau Claire) issued the following statement:
“Higher Education is essential to the success of our state and plays a vital role in driving Wisconsin’s economic growth and long-term success. Strengthening our colleges and universities means empowering the next generation of leaders, innovators, and skilled workers who will shape the future of Wisconsin.
“The Higher Education Powers Wisconsin package is a critical step to reducing barriers to higher education across our state. Every Wisconsinite deserves the opportunity to pursue higher education, regardless of their income, zip code, or background. Higher education is one of the most powerful tools we have to strengthen our workforce and grow our economy.
“I am proud to lead on the Restoring Collective Bargaining bill. This legislation is vital to supporting the UW system and its employees by reinstating the rights taken away by Act 10. It will allow employees to organize and negotiate wages, hours, and working conditions. Ensuring fair compensation helps us retain top talent and strengthens the university system overall. When we invest in UW faculty, we invest in our students and the long-term prosperity of our state.
“I am committed to working with my colleagues to continue advancing policies that expand access, support student success, and ensure Wisconsin remains a place where opportunity is within reach for all.”’
