State Republican lawmakers propose giving Legislature final say in federal aid distribution

WISCONSIN (CBS 58) -- Here in Wisconsin, Republican lawmakers want to have more control over the billions of dollars in federal aid pouring into the state. 

Senate Republicans introduced a proposal that would give the Legislature the final say, instead of the governor, in how federal funds are distributed. 

The measure comes as Republican lawmakers are frustrated that only Governor Evers has oversight on how to spend more than $5-billion in federal assistance to address the pandemic.

"We have people who are elected close to the people they represent, and we want them to have a greater voice in how these federal monies are spent, not just one person making those decisions," said State Senator Duey Stroebel (R-Saukville). 

The GOP constitutional amendment would have to pass two consecutive sessions and then be approved by voters in order to become law. 

The governor cannot veto a constitutional amendment.