Governor Evers Responds to GOP Snub of Special Session on Workforce

Thursday, September 21st, 2023 -- 8:00 AM

(Raymond Neupert, WRN) A special legislative session on workforce development and childcare has come and gone without action from Republicans.

Democratic Governor Tony Evers is disappointed that Republicans took no action in a special session on a billion dollar workforce development plan on Wednesday. Evers says leadership in the Legislature is dropping the ball for families. "I think it's short sighted, we have the money."

Governor Evers says he's not surprised after Republicans decided to do nothing on Wednesday during a special session he called. "This group of Republicans really have not been able to wrap their arms around all sorts of things, and childcare is one of them."

Governor Evers wanted lawmakers to vote on a billion-dollar package of bills. "Am I surprised? Hell no. They've been against childcare for as long as I can remember. And I'm assuming that that's not going to change anytime soon."

Evers wanted to replace a now-expired federal daycare grant, offer more raises for the UW-System, and create a fund for paid family leave. Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMehieu sent the Governor's bills to committee for review, saying they will go through the normal review process like any other bills.

Assembly Speaker Robin Vos says he'll hold up any pay raises for the UW until they start cutting diversity and inclusion programs.

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