Wisconsin is poised for a year of significant transitions in 2025, with developments across various sectors. The 107th Wisconsin Legislature, which convened on January 6, 2025, is expected to address key policy issues, including those related to the economy and environment[1].

In the realm of government and politics, the state legislature is under Republican control, though the party lost its two-thirds supermajorities in both chambers, reducing the likelihood of overriding gubernatorial vetoes or sending proposed constitutional amendments to voters[1]. Notably, the 2025 Wisconsin Spring election, scheduled for April 1, 2025, will include the Wisconsin Supreme Court election, which is anticipated to be a critical event[1].

On the economic front, Wisconsin is expected to see modest growth in 2025, with personal income projected to rise by 4.6% nominally and 2.5% in real terms after adjusting for inflation. However, GDP growth is expected to slow to 1.6%, and employment growth is forecasted at just 0.4%, with 82,867 new jobs created between 2023 and 2025[2]. Key sectors such as education and health services, and leisure and hospitality, are set to undergo significant changes, with the latter adding over 15,000 jobs[2].

In terms of environmental and weather updates, Wisconsin is likely to become a much warmer state over the next few decades, with average temperatures more like those currently experienced in states hundreds of miles to the south. The state is also expected to become somewhat wetter, with a modest increase in total precipitation and in the number of intense rainfall events[3].

Looking ahead, Wisconsin residents and businesses should be aware of the upcoming 2025 Wisconsin Spring election and the potential impacts of new policies on the state's economy. Additionally, the ongoing climate changes and their implications for various sectors, including agriculture and infrastructure, will be critical to monitor. As the state continues to evolve, staying informed about these developments will be essential for navigating the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Wisconsin is experiencing a mix of political, environmental, and educational developments that are shaping the state's future. In the political sphere, the state legislature is actively working on several bills, including proposals to require photographic identification to vote in any election, which are currently in their second consideration phase[1]. Governor Tony Evers has also announced a budget proposal that aims to create a pathway for Wisconsinites to enshrine the will of the people into state law through binding referenda and constitutional amendments, addressing issues such as legalizing marijuana, ensuring access to safe and legal abortion, and expanding BadgerCare[5].

On the environmental front, Wisconsin is projected to become significantly warmer and wetter over the next few decades, with average temperatures resembling those currently experienced in states hundreds of miles to the south. This is based on historical trends and future projections from the Wisconsin Initiative on Climate Change Impacts (WICCI), which uses data from global climate models to predict these changes[2].

In education, the Wisconsin Model Early Learning Standards (WMELS) provide a common language and guidance for families, professionals, and policymakers around early childhood education and care. The fifth edition of WMELS emphasizes guiding principles such as the belief that all children are capable and competent, and that early relationships matter[3].

Looking ahead, Wisconsin residents can expect continued debate on the proposed constitutional amendments and the governor's budget proposal. Additionally, the state's environmental changes will likely remain a focus, with ongoing efforts to understand and prepare for the impacts of climate change. The upcoming legislative session will also see further discussions on various bills, including those related to voting requirements and the session schedule for the 2025-2026 biennial session period[1]. As these developments unfold, Wisconsinites will be watching closely to see how these changes shape the state's future.

Wisconsin is witnessing a flurry of legislative and environmental developments as the state embarks on a new year. In the political sphere, Governor Tony Evers has announced a proposal to create a statewide binding referendum process through a constitutional amendment, allowing Wisconsinites to put binding referenda and constitutional amendments on the ballot[5]. This move aims to give the public more direct influence over state laws and constitutional changes.

Meanwhile, the state legislature is considering several key bills, including SJR2 and AJR1, which propose requiring photographic identification to vote in any election[1]. These bills are part of ongoing efforts to shape the state's electoral processes.

On the environmental front, Wisconsin is projected to become significantly warmer and wetter over the next few decades, with average temperatures expected to resemble those currently experienced in states hundreds of miles to the south[2]. This change is expected to bring about a modest increase in total precipitation and intense rainfall events, particularly during winter.

In consumer news, FOX6 News Milwaukee has highlighted top consumer warnings for January 2025, emphasizing the importance of protecting personal finances and identity[4].

Looking ahead, the state's legislative session will continue to address various proposals, including Governor Evers' initiative to empower the public through ballot initiatives. Additionally, the environmental projections underscore the need for continued focus on climate resilience and adaptation strategies. As Wisconsin navigates these developments, residents and policymakers alike will be watching closely for the outcomes of these initiatives and their impact on the state's future.

Wisconsin is poised for significant changes in 2025, with developments spanning government, economy, and environmental sectors.

Governor Tony Evers has proposed a new Office of Violence Prevention, aiming to support multi-agency law enforcement investigations and implement suicide prevention education and threat assessment programs. The initiative, which includes a $10 million initial investment and a request for millions more in the new state budget, has already faced pushback from Republicans[1].

In legislative news, the Assembly has approved a constitutional amendment requiring photo ID to vote, which will now go to a statewide referendum on April 1. The amendment passed along party lines, with all Republicans in favor and all Democrats opposed[1][2].

On the economic front, Wisconsin is expected to see modest growth in 2025, with personal income projected to rise by 4.6% nominally and 2.5% in real terms. However, GDP growth is expected to slow to 1.6%, and employment growth is forecasted at just 0.4%, with 82,867 new jobs created between 2023 and 2025[3].

In community news, the University of Wisconsin-Extension is offering "adulting" classes to help young people develop essential life skills such as buying groceries, signing leases, and paying taxes[1].

Environmental projections indicate that Wisconsin will become significantly warmer over the next few decades, with average temperatures resembling those currently experienced in states hundreds of miles to the south. The state is also expected to become somewhat wetter, with a modest increase in total precipitation and intense rainfall events[4].

Looking Ahead:
- The statewide referendum on the photo ID amendment is scheduled for April 1.
- The Wisconsin Supreme Court's decision on the case challenging the Department of Natural Resources' authority to regulate PFAS spills is anticipated.
- The impact of the new Office of Violence Prevention and its funding will be closely watched.
- Economic trends and employment growth will continue to be monitored as Wisconsin navigates its projected modest growth.

Wisconsin is entering 2025 with a mix of economic optimism and legislative activity. The state legislature has been busy, with notable bills such as SJR2 and AJR1 aiming to require photographic identification to vote in any election, now in their second consideration phase[1]. Additionally, the session schedule for the 2025-2026 biennial session period has been established with SJR1.

On the economic front, Wisconsin is showing resilience. The state's unemployment rate stands at 2.9%, below the national average, driven by industries like agriculture, technology manufacturing, and tourism[2]. The recent Fed rate cuts have provided a soft landing for businesses, though concerns about inflation and its impact on consumer confidence remain.

In terms of environmental updates, Wisconsin is projected to experience significant climate changes, including warmer temperatures and increased precipitation. Historical trends and future projections indicate that the state will become much warmer over the next few decades, with winter experiencing the greatest warming and most likely increase in precipitation[3].

Looking at broader fiscal management, states like Wisconsin can benefit from tools for sustainable state budgeting to prevent structural deficits and temporary gaps. The Pew Charitable Trusts emphasizes the importance of balancing revenue and spending to avoid long-term fiscal challenges[4].

In local news, Wisconsin's Midday News on January 14th, 2025, covered various top stories across the state, though specific details were not provided in the broadcast summary[5].

Looking Ahead:
- The Wisconsin legislature is expected to continue debating key bills, including those related to voting requirements and the session schedule.
- Economic trends, including the impact of Fed rate cuts and employment rates, will be closely monitored.
- Environmental projections suggest that Wisconsin will need to prepare for significant climate changes, including warmer temperatures and increased precipitation.
- The state's approach to sustainable budgeting will be crucial in managing fiscal challenges and preventing structural deficits.

Wisconsin is poised for a year of significant changes and developments across various sectors. The state legislature remains under Republican control following the 2024 election, despite new district boundaries that Democrats had hoped would give them a chance to make major inroads. A Republican-authored constitutional amendment that bars foreign nationals from voting in Wisconsin was also approved by voters[1].

On the economic front, Wisconsin is expected to see modest growth in 2025, with personal income projected to rise by 4.6% nominally and 2.5% in real terms after adjusting for inflation. However, GDP growth is expected to slow to 1.6%, and employment growth is forecasted at just 0.4%, with 82,867 new jobs created between 2023 and 2025. Key sectors such as leisure and hospitality are expected to add over 15,000 jobs, while manufacturing and trade face challenges with anticipated job losses[2].

In terms of environmental and weather updates, Wisconsin is projected to become a much warmer state over the next few decades, with average temperatures more like those currently experienced in states hundreds of miles to the south. The state is also expected to become somewhat wetter, with a modest increase in total precipitation and in the number of intense rainfall events[3].

Looking ahead, residents and businesses should be aware of potential challenges brought on by new policies and shifts in employment patterns. The state's economic landscape is evolving, and staying informed about these changes will be crucial. Additionally, ongoing efforts to address climate change and its impacts on Wisconsin will continue to be a focus in the coming years. Key events to watch include the 2026 legislative elections, which could potentially shift the balance of power in the state legislature, and further developments in the state's economic and environmental policies.

Wisconsin is entering 2025 with significant changes across various sectors. The state legislature has begun its first new session after redistricting, with Republicans holding narrow majorities in both chambers. The Assembly now consists of 54 Republicans and 45 Democrats, while the Senate has an 18-15 Republican majority[1].

Economically, Wisconsin is expected to see modest growth in 2025, with personal income projected to rise by 4.6% nominally and 2.5% in real terms. However, GDP growth is expected to slow to 1.6%, and employment growth is forecasted at just 0.4%, with 82,867 new jobs created between 2023 and 2025[2].

The labor market will experience a slowdown, with the unemployment rate projected to rise to 3.6% by 2027. Key sectors such as education and health services will surpass others as Wisconsin’s second-largest employer, while leisure and hospitality will add over 15,000 jobs with a robust 5.25% growth. Conversely, manufacturing and trade face challenges with anticipated job losses[2].

On the environmental front, Wisconsin is expected to become significantly warmer over the next few decades, with average temperatures resembling those currently experienced in states hundreds of miles to the south. The state will also become somewhat wetter, with a modest increase in total precipitation and intense rainfall events[3].

In local government, cities like Eau Claire have successfully conducted elections, including drive-through voting, and are committed to serving their communities with a broad range of skills and expertise[4].

Looking ahead, the 2025-26 legislative session will be crucial for clean energy initiatives, with new faces and changes in committee makeup and leadership in the State Assembly and Senate. The recent election led to 37 freshmen policymakers, and organizations like RENEW Wisconsin are working to navigate these changes and seize opportunities for clean energy legislation[5]. As Wisconsin navigates these shifts, residents and businesses should stay informed and prepared for the evolving economic and policy environment.

Wisconsin has entered a new legislative session following the recent redistricting, which has shifted the political landscape in both chambers. Republicans maintain majorities in the Assembly and Senate, albeit by narrower margins than in previous years. The Assembly now consists of 54 Republicans and 45 Democrats, while the Senate has an 18-15 Republican majority[1].

In economic news, Wisconsin is expected to see modest growth in 2025, with personal income projected to rise by 4.6% nominally and 2.5% in real terms. However, GDP growth is expected to slow to 1.6%, and employment growth is forecasted at just 0.4%, with 82,867 new jobs created between 2023 and 2025[2].

The state's labor market will experience deceleration, with the unemployment rate projected to rise to 3.6% by 2027. Key sectors such as education and health services are expected to grow, while manufacturing and trade face challenges with anticipated job losses[2].

On the environmental front, Wisconsin is projected to become significantly warmer over the next few decades, with average temperatures resembling those currently experienced in states hundreds of miles to the south. The state is also expected to become somewhat wetter, with a modest increase in total precipitation and intense rainfall events[3].

In policy news, the state legislature is focusing on sustainable budgeting practices to ensure long-term fiscal stability. This includes assessing whether decisions will be affordable over the long term and preventing structural deficits[4].

Looking Ahead:
- The 2025-26 legislative session will continue to navigate changes in committee makeup and leadership in the State Assembly and Senate, with 37 freshmen policymakers[5].
- The state's economic and environmental challenges will require thoughtful and collaborative approaches to ensure sustainable growth and resilience.
- Residents and businesses should stay informed about evolving economic and policy environments to navigate the shifts effectively.

Wisconsin is poised for significant changes in 2025, with developments spanning government, economy, and environmental sectors.

Governor Tony Evers recently announced a proposal to include in his 2025-27 Executive Budget, which would require the Wisconsin State Legislature to create a pathway for the people of Wisconsin to put binding referenda on the ballot, enabling them to enact statutory and constitutional changes through a majority vote without the Legislature’s approval[1][5]. This move aims to give Wisconsinites direct input on policies such as legalizing marijuana, ensuring access to safe and legal abortion, expanding BadgerCare, and enacting gun safety reform policies. However, Republican lawmakers have voiced opposition to the proposal, labeling it "dead on arrival."

On the economic front, Wisconsin is expected to see modest growth in 2025, with personal income projected to rise by 4.6% nominally and 2.5% in real terms after adjusting for inflation. The labor market will experience a slowdown, with employment growth forecasted at just 0.4% and 82,867 new jobs created between 2023 and 2025[2].

In terms of environmental updates, Wisconsin is likely to become a much warmer state over the next few decades, with average temperatures more like those currently experienced in states hundreds of miles to the south. The state is also expected to become somewhat wetter, with a modest increase in total precipitation and in the number of intense rainfall events[3].

Looking Ahead:
- The Wisconsin State Assembly is expected to vote on a constitutional amendment next week, which, if passed, will appear on the ballot for the April 2025 election.
- The state faces substantial economic challenges, and both businesses and workers should stay informed and prepared for the evolving economic and policy environment.
- The ongoing debate over the governor’s proposal to empower the people of Wisconsin to put issues to a vote on a statewide ballot will continue to be a significant political issue in the coming months.

Wisconsin is poised for a year of significant transitions in 2025, with developments spanning government, economy, and environmental sectors.

The state legislature is set to vote on a constitutional amendment proposal next week, which, if passed, will appear on the ballot for the April 2025 election. This move by Republican lawmakers aims to amend Wisconsin’s constitution to address issues already covered under existing state and federal law, sparking concerns about democracy and voting rights[1].

On the economic front, Wisconsin is expected to see modest growth in 2025, with personal income projected to rise by 4.6% nominally and 2.5% in real terms. However, GDP growth is expected to slow to 1.6%, and employment growth is forecasted at just 0.4%, with 82,867 new jobs created between 2023 and 2025[2].

Key sectors such as education and health services are set to become the state’s second-largest employer, while leisure and hospitality will add over 15,000 jobs with a robust 5.25% growth. Conversely, manufacturing and trade sectors face challenges with anticipated job losses[2].

In environmental news, Wisconsin is projected to become a much warmer state over the next few decades, with average temperatures similar to those currently experienced in states hundreds of miles to the south. The state is also likely to become somewhat wetter, with a modest increase in total precipitation and intense rainfall events[3].

Looking Ahead, the April 2025 election will be a critical event, with the constitutional amendment proposal on the ballot. Additionally, the evolving economic landscape and ongoing environmental changes will require thoughtful navigation by both businesses and residents to ensure Wisconsin’s resilience. The state’s ability to adapt to these shifts will be crucial in determining its future trajectory.