Department of Natural Resources Chair Shocked by Lawsuit Against Him

Friday, August 20th, 2021 -- 9:24 AM

(AP) The chairman of Wisconsin’s Department of Natural Resources policy board said Wednesday that a lawsuit seeking to remove him from the panel is politically motivated and that he has a right to continue serving.

Fred Prehn said in a telephone interview with The Associated Press that Democratic Gov. Tony Evers’ administration sees him as a roadblock to its wildlife and environmental agenda. He said he won’t give up his seat until the state Senate confirms his replacement.

He pointed to May 25 analysis by the Legislative Reference Bureau that concluded the state Supreme Court ruled in 1964 that holdover appointees can continue to serve until their replacement wins Senate confirmation.

“I still believe I’m a duly nominated member of this board,” Prehn said. “You read that memo and I think you’ll go ‘wow.’ It’s so on point with what we’re doing.” Former Gov. Scott Walker appointed Prehn to the board in 2015. His term expired May 1.

Evers appointed Sandra Naas to replace him, a move that would give his appointees majority control of the board. But Prehn has refused to step down, insisting he can remain in place until the Senate confirms Naas.

The Republican-controlled body has yet to schedule a hearing on Naas’ appointment. A host of environmental groups concerned that conservatives are illegally maintaining control of the board, allowing them to shape outdoors and pollution policy, asked Democratic Attorney General Josh Kaul last month to file a lawsuit demanding a judge force Prehn out.

Kaul filed an action in Dane County Circuit Court on Tuesday seeking a court order removing Prehn from the board, arguing the governor can remove gubernatorial appointees at any time. Prehn said he was “shocked” that Kaul is suing him in light of the Legislative Reference Bureau analysis.

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