Evers calls for $250 million in cuts from state agencies

MADISON, Wis. — Gov. Tony Evers on Wednesday ordered $250 million in cuts to state agencies this year — the latest financial hit caused by the coronavirus pandemic. “The UW System has already borne a disproportionate share of state cuts to date,” said interim UW President Tommy Thompson, a former governor. “As decisions are made about how the $250 million in cost savings are allocated across state agencies, I hope state leaders take into account the importance of trying to maintain the state’s investment in higher education and the share of the earlier cost savings absorbed by UW System,” Blank said. “All state and local governments are now experiencing the difficult balance of providing vital services to residents in crisis while also managing tough fiscal realities.” Evers said the he remained hopeful that the federal government will provide additional aid to the state but “in the face of continued inaction and uncertainty, the unfortunate reality is that we must take these steps and make more significant cuts.” Republican legislative leaders, Assembly Speaker Robin Vos and Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald, did not immediately respond to requests for comment.