Wisconsin’s Finances: Debt and Borrowing - What you Need to Know SUMMARY:

This memo describes the types of debt used by the state, the new debt authorized under the most recent budget bill, and Wisconsin’s outstanding debt obligations. [...] These are bonds for general purpose that are backed by the full faith and credit of the state of Wisconsin. [...] Despite the increased use of cash payments in lieu of borrowing, the state is estimated to have an almost $4 billion surplus at the end of biennium, mostly due to Governor Evers’ veto of the Legislature’s income tax cut.4 General Obligation and Revenue Bonding (2023-2025 Budget) Department of Administration Energy conservation projects $25,000,000 Housing state agency $39,878,000 Environmental Imp. [...] (After the 2013-2015 budget the sale of surplus real estate was no longer deposited in the fund; however, the sale of surplus equipment still is) This resulted in low fund levels with less than $1 million being deposited in most years. [...] The legislature continued to increase the balance during the Evers administration with a balance of $1.73 billion in 2021- 2022.7 State law requires the fund to have a minimum balance of $105 million in 2025 with an additional $5 million in each fiscal year.8 The balance of the fund is estimated at $1.8 billion and is currently accruing an estimated $7 million in interest every month.9 COMPARISON.