From Marie Baker

Dodgeville

To the Editor:

On August 13, Wisconsinites will be voting on two constitutional amendment questions. It’s critical that voters VOTE NO on both, because these changes would keep the governor from getting federal funds to where they’re needed.

When natural disasters like floods or tornadoes hit our communities, we need relief money quickly. These proposed amendments could drag out the process and delay necessary federal funds from getting to the folks who need it.

These changes are not fixing a problem. Our laws already give legislators a say in how tax dollars are spent through the state budget-making process. This change does not belong in our state constitution.

It is easier for Wisconsin voters to hold the governor accountable for how federal funds are spent than the entire legislature. The governor is accountable to the whole state. The governor was elected in a fair, statewide election and entrusted to deal with federal money.

The Constitution ensures that the three branches of government are equal and have their own set of duties. Our government is like a three-legged stool — take out a leg and everything comes crashing down. The legislature wants to take away the governor’s duties for themselves. This will create an imbalance in our government. That’s why I’m voting NO on both constitutional amendments on August 13.