Legislative leaders in the state Assembly say they still see a need for legislation that would strip the governor of his authority to appoint the Department of Natural Resources Secretary.
Lawmakers approved legislation last fall that would have put the decision in the hands of the Natural Resources Board, rather than the governor’s office. Governor Jim Doyle vetoed the measure, saying the current system puts the power of his office behind the DNR, allowing it to accomplish more effective changes in environmental policy.
State Representative Spencer Black (D-Madison) argues the current system allows politics to influence too much environmental policy though, rather than relying on science to help direct change.
An amended version of the bill passed the Assembly in November on a 49-44 vote, which is far short of the two-thirds majority needed to override Doyle’s veto. Black says that means Republican support will be a crucial part of the effort. He says it’s unclear how the other side of the aisle will vote on the issue.
AUDIO: Andrew Beckett reports (:59)