### Wisconsin's Governor Signs Budget to Secure Vital Medicaid Funding Amid Federal Cuts - In a critical move to protect healthcare funding, Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers signed a new two-year budget in the early hours of July 3, 2025. This budget aims to secure federal Medicaid matching funds that the state risks losing due to proposed cuts in President Donald Trump's tax and spending package. The urgency of this decision reflects the potential impact on Wisconsin's healthcare system, particularly for hospitals that could face over $1 billion in funding losses if Congress does not act swiftly [https://www.nwaonline.com/news/2025/jul/04/wisconsins-governor-signs-budget-in-race-for, https://www.latimes.com/world-nation/story/2025-07-03/governor-signs-budget-in-early-morning-to-secure-medicaid-funds]. ### Overview of the Budget Signing and Legislative Context 1. **Budget Signing**: Governor Evers signed the budget early on July 3, 2025, to ensure the state secures necessary federal Medicaid funds [https://www.fox6now.com/news/evers-signs-budget-early-morning-secure-medicaid-funds]. 2. **Legislative Race**: The budget was passed in a rush by the Wisconsin Legislature, highlighting the urgency to act before potential federal funding cuts take effect [https://madison.com/news/state-regional/government-politics/article_e07dd7b2-7d92-49b0-bec8-5d35a194eb11.html]. 3. **Bipartisan Efforts**: The budget deal was reached through bipartisan negotiations, with Democratic votes being crucial for its passage [https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/wisconsin/articles/2025-07-02/wisconsin-republicans-look-to-democrats-to-pass-state-budget-deal]. 4. **Impact on Healthcare**: The budget is expected to affect nearly every resident in Wisconsin, particularly in terms of healthcare access and funding for hospitals [https://www.latimes.com/world-nation/story/2025-07-03/governor-signs-budget-in-early-morning-to-secure-medicaid-funds]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Federal Funding Risks**: Wisconsin stands to lose over $1 billion in federal funding for hospitals if the budget was not signed in time [https://madison.com/news/state-regional/government-politics/article_e07dd7b2-7d92-49b0-bec8-5d35a194eb11.html]. - **Bipartisan Support**: The budget passed with bipartisan support, indicating a collaborative effort to address the urgent funding needs [https://www.fox6now.com/news/wisconsin-state-budget-2025-votes]. - **Tax Cuts and Education Funding**: The budget also includes provisions for tax cuts and increased funding for education, showcasing a comprehensive approach to state financial management [https://www.fox6now.com/news/evers-reaches-budget-deal-republicans-cut-taxes-fund-university]. ### Conclusion: A Strategic Move for Wisconsin's Future - **Immediate Action**: Governor Evers' signing of the budget was a strategic move to secure essential Medicaid funding and protect Wisconsin's healthcare infrastructure. - **Bipartisan Collaboration**: The successful passage of the budget reflects a rare moment of bipartisan cooperation in a politically divided state. - **Long-term Implications**: This budget not only addresses immediate funding needs but also sets the stage for future financial stability through tax cuts and educational investments. 1. Governor Evers signed the budget to secure Medicaid funds. 2. The budget was passed in a rush due to potential federal cuts. 3. Bipartisan support was crucial for the budget's approval. 4. The budget includes tax cuts and increased funding for education. This comprehensive approach aims to safeguard Wisconsin's healthcare system while promoting economic growth through strategic investments [https://www.nwaonline.com/news/2025/jul/04/wisconsins-governor-signs-budget-in-race-for, https://www.latimes.com/world-nation/story/2025-07-03/governor-signs-budget-in-early-morning-to-secure-medicaid-funds].