Madison, WI – Early this morning, Governor Tony Evers signed the 2025–2027 Wisconsin State Budget but used his veto pen to remove funding for two major Northwoods priorities. Funding for the Lakeland STAR School and Academy was eliminated for the fourth budget in a row, along with support for a vital restoration project on the Deerskin River.

Lakeland STAR Veto

For the fourth consecutive budget, Governor Evers blocked $750,000 in funding for the Lakeland STAR School and Academy, a life-changing program serving students with autism and special needs across the Northwoods.

“Governor Evers calls this the ‘Year of the Kid’—unless you’re a child with special needs from the Northwoods,” said Rep. Rob Swearingen (R–Rhinelander). “This is about giving kids in our communities with special needs the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. Every time he vetoes this funding, it’s Northwoods families who pay the price.”

Lakeland STAR offers personalized, skills-based education to help students reach their fullest potential, live independently, and find employment after graduation.

Deerskin River Veto

Governor Evers also vetoed $1.75 million for the Deerskin River restoration, claiming he could not approve the funding because the legislature declined to reauthorize the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program.

“Let’s call it what it is—a lame excuse,” Swearingen said. “This project is about fixing problems caused by state agency decisions and protecting our local lakes and fish habitat. Blaming the Knowles-Nelson program is just political cover. Local governments and residents have been asking for this help for years. The only thing standing in their way is the Governor’s pen.”

“Northwoods families, students, and outdoor enthusiasts deserve better than another round of vetoes and political games. I’ll keep fighting for the people I represent—no matter how many times the Governor says no,” Swearingen concluded.

Representative Swearingen represents the 34th Assembly District, which includes the Northwoods counties of Oneida and Vilas.