Wisconsin Gov. Evers Says 'Big Beautiful Bill' Costs State $284M, Cuts Health Coverage for 270,000

Governor Tony Evers and the Wisconsin Department of Health Services have released analyses indicating that President Donald Trump's 'Big Beautiful Bill' will increase costs for Wisconsin taxpayers by over $284 million in future budgets, equating to about $142 million annually once fully implemented. The legislation introduces new work requirements for Medicaid and FoodShare recipients, impacting over 270,000 Wisconsinites who may lose health insurance and tens of thousands who could lose access to food assistance. The state will also face increased administrative expenses to implement employment and training services and maintain quality control to avoid federal penalties. These changes shift significant costs from the federal government to Wisconsin, necessitating the state legislature to approve nearly $70 million in new funding within the current biennium. While the Trump administration argues these reforms will reduce waste and preserve Medicaid's integrity, Governor Evers criticizes the bill for adding to the federal deficit, undermining social safety nets, and placing undue financial burdens on taxpayers. Despite the controversy, a 2023 advisory referendum showed strong voter support for work requirements tied to public benefits in Wisconsin.