Governor Tony Evers recently used his veto pen to prevent bills to reform the unemployment insurance program and protect consumers’ access to gas-powered engine sales from becoming law.

The governor vetoed SB 184, which sought to bar state agencies and local units of government from restricting the use or sale of motor vehicles and other devices based on the energy source.

“Places like California have seen their radical ideas, like banning gas-powered cars, spread to other states around the nation,” said NFIB State Director Luke Bacher.  “NFIB believes that consumers should not be forced to buy electric cars and snowblowers.”

Evers also vetoed three bills that sought to make changes to the state’s Unemployment Insurance (UI) program.

AB 168 sought to implement a new identity verification process and to extend the statute of limitations for prosecuting fraud in the program.

Meanwhile, AB 169 sought to end the trending practice of “ghosting”, where applicants would schedule a job interview with no intent of actually showing up – simply to check the box when receiving unemployment.  Evers’ veto message said he objected to adding burdens to those on unemployment.

And AB 146 sought to give employers a longer window to respond to an initial request about a UI benefit claim.  These inquiries from the Department of Workforce Development are often sent through the mail, which can be hindered by delivery delays, making responding within the given time frame difficult for small businesses.  Evers wrote that it could delay the timely processing of unemployment applications.

“These unemployment reform measures are commonsense and would help the small businesses of Wisconsin,” said Bacher.  “Given the current workforce shortage faced by small businesses, we need to ensure those who are able to work are genuinely seeking employment.”

NFIB in Wisconsin will continue to fight for small businesses in Madison and we still need your help! Share with us how this will impact your small business here.