Attorney General Josh Kaul expressed his thoughts on the recent decision made by the Wisconsin Supreme Court to accept jurisdiction in the case Evers v. Marklein. In a statement released today, he emphasized the importance of the separation of powers in the government system.
"The separation of powers is foundational to our system of government," Attorney General Kaul stated. "That principle, which guards against the concentration of governmental power, is inconsistent with permitting legislative committees to exercise a veto over executive branch actions like DNR's awarding of funds for conservation projects."
The case in question revolves around the authority of legislative committees to veto executive branch actions, specifically related to the Department of Natural Resources' (DNR) allocation of funds for conservation projects. Attorney General Kaul believes that allowing such vetoes undermines the balance of power and violates the principle of separation of powers.
"We look forward to working to vindicate that principle before the Wisconsin Supreme Court," he concluded.
The Wisconsin Supreme Court's decision to accept jurisdiction in this case indicates that they will now review the matter and make a final ruling. This decision will ultimately determine the extent of legislative committees' authority over executive branch actions.
The Attorney General's statement highlights the importance of upholding the separation of powers and ensuring that no one branch of government holds too much control. By challenging the legislative committee's veto power, Attorney General Kaul aims to maintain a system that prevents the concentration of governmental power.
As the case moves forward, it will be interesting to see how the Wisconsin Supreme Court deliberates on this matter and whether they will uphold the principle of separation of powers.