The Wisconsin State Legislature has passed the 2025-27 state biennial budget, which Governor Evers has signed into law. This development impacts the University of Wisconsin-Madison in various ways, according to a message from Chancellor Jennifer L. Mnookin and other university leaders.
The budget allocates additional state resources for the Universities of Wisconsin, including UW-Madison. “This budget makes a meaningful bipartisan investment in higher education,” the statement noted, highlighting the importance of compromises for collective benefits. The university acknowledges its role as a significant economic contributor and an educational institution shaping future leaders in Wisconsin.
Key funding areas identified include renovation projects such as Science Hall and expansion plans for dining facilities at Chadbourne and DeJope. However, there is disappointment over the exclusion of funds for a new residence hall. Planning funds are provided for demolishing and relocating the Humanities Building due to high maintenance costs.
Compensation increases are planned, with 3% and 2% hikes for all state employees, including those at UW-Madison. Additionally, $27 million annually will be allocated to attract faculty in high-demand fields, alongside $11.25 million annually based on course credits awarded to undergraduate students across UW campuses.
New statutory requirements focus on instructor workload guidelines that need approval from the Joint Committee on Employment Relations (JCOER). “We will work with the Board of Regents to develop a reasonable and thoughtful policy,” stated Mnookin. Interim Provost John Zumbrunnen will form an advisory committee at UW-Madison to assess this legislation’s impact.
The budget mandates that by September 1, 2026, all core general educational course credits must be transferable between UW campuses under revised policies by the Board of Regents. This aims to provide clarity for transfer students.
An indefinite extension of an existing System-wide position cap is also included in the budget. While this is manageable currently due to fiscal constraints, concerns remain about its long-term implications without an end date.
University leaders expressed gratitude toward their State Relations team for their advocacy efforts throughout this process.
