Next week, the Joint Finance Committee (JFC) will hold the final two public hearings on the 2025-27 biennial state budget.

• Monday, April 28 – Hayward High School Auditorium, 10320 Greenwood Lane, Hayward
• Tuesday, April 29 – Northcentral Technical College – Center for Health Sciences, 1000 W. Campus Drive, Wausau

JFC’s public hearings offer an opportunity for the public to share their perspectives on a wide range of budget-related topics, including education, health care, infrastructure, public safety, and community programs. In past budget cycles, JFC typically begins to take votes on the budget following the state wide “roadshow.” However, the budget cycle has been a bit slower than previous years, due several pending State Supreme Court cases that could have implications for the budget.

It is expected JFC will take votes in May on the budget, however some of the larger-ticket items will likely be resolved after the court’s rulings are released.

Previous Hearings

The first daylong hearing was held on April 2 in Kaukauna, Wisconsin where participants raised concerns about special education funding, Medicaid reimbursement rates, child care, and support for local infrastructure. Speakers included school officials, health care professionals, nonprofit leaders, and community members.

The second hearing took place on April 4 at Wisconsin State Fair Park in West Allis. Testimony highlighted topics such as creative economy funding, services for older adults and individuals with disabilities, emergency food assistance, and support for the state’s legal and judicial systems.