You can likely expect another quick special session in September when the Wisconsin Legislature convenes at the request of Governor Tony Evers. The Democratic governor called for a special session earlier this week to address workforce challenges, with a special emphasis on childcare, paid leave, and higher education funding. He points to the $4 billion budget surplus as a reason to invest in solving the problem as the state has plenty of jobs available despite having a low unemployment rate and high labor participation rate.

Republicans have panned the move, saying that it is all political theatrics. Previous special sessions taking on issues like gun control, abortion rights, and redistricting have lasted mere minutes, gaveling in and out before conversations can take place. Rep. Joel Kitchens expects this special session to go the same way, but he would like to see some meaningful conversations take place beforehand instead of forcing action on the floors of the Assembly and Senate.

Kitchens hopes some acts of bipartisanship, similar to what came together for his Right to Read bill, show up in this discussion since both parties believe workforce challenges like affordable childcare are major issues. He admits, however, that Evers’ use of his line-item veto power in the last budget rubbed Republican leaders the wrong way, making it more difficult to have good-faith discussions about the topic.