MADISON, WI (WSAU) — Governor Tony Evers issued a veto Tuesday for a bill that would have ended the additional $300 per week in federal unemployment benefits.
The Governor cited two main reasons for issuing the veto; arguing that ending the benefit would encroach on the federal authority to administer programs and policies. He also said ending the benefit would take relief dollars away from those who work in industries that haven’t fully recovered from the pandemic.
The measure has been in place since the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. As the pandemic slows, many have felt that the boost is no longer needed. Some Republicans have argued that it puts small businesses behind the eight-ball when it comes to hiring, as people can make just as much money staying home instead of actively seeking employment.
In his veto, Evers argued that the state’s workforce participation rate is still higher than the national average, even with the added benefit in place.
Many Republican-controlled states have cut the benefit, which is scheduled to end on September 6th.
The bill was one of three that the Governor acted on this week. He signed two others into law- one that makes changes to how room tax revenue is collected and distributed, and another that prevents the Department of Public Instruction from waiving third-grade standardized reading tests.
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