MADISON, WI – Today, the Joint Finance Committee will be taking action on the preliminary bipartisan compromise reached by members of Legislative Leadership and Governor Evers. While this budget is progress in certain areas, it is not perfect. The Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Fund will not be included in that compromise, even though over 90% of Wisconsinites support dedicating public funds for conservation.
Senator Habush Sinykin shared her disappointed in the following statement:
“While I recognize all that has gone into reaching this compromise budget, I must share that I am deeply disappointed that Republican leaders would not agree to reauthorize the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program–even for just one more year through 2027. Beyond the long-time importance of this program to me personally, Knowles-Nelson funding has stood out as the single-most popular issue I have heard from my constituents during my first six months in office–from voters across the political spectrum.
“I am proud to say that my senate office has committed a significant amount of time on this issue, building a broad coalition of support across Wisconsin and working with my colleagues to find ways to get this policy in the budget. I remain grateful for everyone who sent letters, signed a petition, made phone calls, and advocated for this program to be in the budget.
“Here’s the situation now: Knowles-Nelson reauthorization expires on June 20, 2026, giving the Legislature one year to take action before the deadline, and Republicans have indicated they will bring this back to the agenda this fall. Trust that I will keep up the pressure on Republicans and hold them to their word. I will continue to be a strong advocate for this long-standing bipartisan promise.
“This is not the time to give up. Wisconsinites have demonstrated that we can find common ground on issues that are important to all of us, like support for local stewardship and conservation efforts. I know my constituents will continue to be engaged strongly on this issue and I am hopeful we will get it done together.”
