Gov. Evers’ biennial state budget prioritizes clean water, clean energy, and public lands for Wisconsin

MADISON – Wisconsin Conservation Voters applauds Gov. Tony Evers for making historic investments in clean water in his 2025-27 biennial budget. The Governor’s commitment to addressing PFAS contamination, replacing lead service lines, and protecting private well owners from dangerous contaminants like nitrate is a crucial step toward ensuring safe drinking water for all Wisconsinites.

“For too long, Wisconsin families have suffered the consequences of PFAS, lead, and nitrate contamination in their drinking water,” said Government Affairs Manager Peter Burress. “These toxic chemicals pose serious health risks, particularly to children. Gov. Evers’ proposed budget takes long-overdue action to protect public health and ensure access to clean water.”

The budget includes over $300 million to remove lead from service lines, schools, child care centers, and homes – protecting Wisconsin children from dangerous lead levels. More than $145 million is allocated to combat toxic, cancer-causing PFAS contamination statewide by supporting stronger groundwater standards, cleanup efforts, and emergency response resources. The budget also expands and increases funding for the well compensation grant program.

Gov. Evers’ budget also supports efforts to drive clean energy in Wisconsin by funding a Green Bank that allows Wisconsin businesses, local governments, and nonprofits to fund renewable energy projects. This $50 million sustainable funding effort ensures that Wisconsin can continue to transition our energy to cleaner and more affordable energy options. The budget also increases money for Focus on Energy and other energy conservation efforts.

“The cheapest and cleanest energy is that which we don't have to produce,” said Government Affairs Director Jennifer Giegerich. “The transition to a clean energy economy is already underway, and Gov. Evers’ budget will help build on that momentum, helping to create a more robust economy and protect the Wisconsin we love – for us and for future generations.”

Another budget highlight is the reauthorization of the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program, now featuring a $3 million fund for State-Tribal conservation projects. The overall increase of bonding to $100 million a year for 10 years for the Knowles Nelson Stewardship Fund will allow for more land purchases and greater maintenance of these lands for all Wisconsinites to enjoy.

“We urge the Legislature to act swiftly to pass these critical provisions. Clean water, clean energy, and healthy communities are not partisan issues – they are fundamental rights. The investments in this budget will have a lasting impact on public health, our environment, and future generations of Wisconsinites," said Giegerich.