Delafield, Wis. – The Institute for Reforming Government (IRG) released its 2025-2026 Wisconsin Legislative Session Recap on Thursday, providing a comprehensive review of major legislation, budget decisions, policy reforms, and missed opportunities that shaped the final legislative session before Wisconsin voters elect a new governor in November.
WHY IT MATTERS:
The report examines the state’s record-setting budget growth, stalled tax reform efforts, constitutional amendments headed to voters, education and healthcare policy changes, housing reforms, workforce challenges, and legislation that could impact Wisconsin’s long-term economic competitiveness.
WHAT WE FOUND:
The 2025-2026 legislative session reflected the ongoing reality of divided government, producing a mix of incremental victories and significant unfinished business. While lawmakers approved reforms to protect children, clean up PFAS contamination, expand healthcare access through advanced practice registered nurses, and place voter ID in the Wisconsin Constitution, major structural reforms remained unresolved.
Most notably, lawmakers failed to agree on how to return Wisconsin’s $2.4 billion surplus to taxpayers, leaving one of the state’s largest policy questions for the next governor and legislature.
THE QUOTE:
“The story of this legislative session is ultimately one of opportunities missed,” said Maryjane Behm, Deputy Director, Policy and Reform at the Institute for Reforming Government. “Wisconsin achieved meaningful wins on voter ID, child protection, PFAS cleanup, and housing. However, taxpayers are still waiting for lasting tax relief and structural changes to keep Wisconsin competitive in the years ahead for a place to live, work and retire.”
THE HIGHLIGHTS:
- Wisconsin’s 2025-2027 state budget increased spending by 15%, pushing total state spending above $114 billion.
- Lawmakers did not reach agreement on how to return the state’s $2.4 billion surplus to taxpayers, leaving the issue for the next governor and legislature.
- Voters approved a constitutional amendment enshrining voter ID in the Wisconsin Constitution, while three additional constitutional amendments will appear on the November 2026 ballot.
- The session produced bipartisan wins on child protection, PFAS cleanup, healthcare access, and housing reform, but major tax, education, and healthcare reforms remained unfinished.
