MADISON – Today, Rep. Darrin Madison (D-10) joined his new colleagues Rep. Christian Phelps (D-93) and Rep. Angelina Cruz (D-62) and other freshmen in proposing robust protections against sudden freezes or withdrawals of federal funding. The federal Office of Management and Budget issued an Executive Order on January 27, 2025 commanding a broad federal funding freeze, leading to both uncertainty and fear over the revenue source for almost a quarter of Wisconsin’s budget.
This bill would give Wisconsin’s legislature the power to quickly and effectively address any future federal funding freezes caused by executive action, using the state’s $1.9B “rainy day” fund..
Representative Madison (D-10) issued the following statement:
“President Trump and his unelected proxy Elon Musk are intentionally freezing, and threatening to completely withdraw, federal funding to sow fear and cause direct harm in our communities. Disrupted funding for critical programs and services is already hurting people and cutting them off from good jobs, necessary medical care, quality housing, and dignified lives. We have a clear responsibility as legislators, regardless of party, to use the power of state government to protect our constituents from harm. While the state’s $1.9B Rainy Day Fund can’t undo the effects of a complete federal funds withdrawal or freeze, it can and should be used to prevent enormous suffering.
Ultimately, it will be up to Legislative Republicans to take this chance to put the wellbeing of their constituents first and stand up to President Trump and Elon Musk. We encourage them to do so and are ready to work with them, on behalf of the people of Wisconsin who are clearly calling for action now.”
