WISCONSIN (MacIver Institute) -- Hope you are staying warm! This week's MacIver Monday is here to distract you from the bite of winter.
Spotlight
Wisconsin Lags Behind on SNAP Reform
Beginning at the start of 2026, the Trump Administration enacted new restrictions on what can be purchased using SNAP benefits. So far, 18 states have taken advantage of this new waiver program, allowing them to place restrictions on various unhealthy foods such as candy, sugary juices, prepared desserts, and sodas.
But not Wisconsin.
While there has been an effort in the state legislature to move toward pursuing a waiver for Wisconsin's Food Share program, it has (unsurprisingly) run into headwinds by Democrats. Courtney Graves has more in this week's Spotlight story.
Deep Dive
Assembly Passes Bold—and much needed—Stewardship Reform
Richard Moore celebrates the recent passage in the state Assembly of reforms to the state's Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program that will provide more accountability and transparency.
At MacIver, we've covered the Knowles-Nelson Program for some time, including breaking news about more than 120,000 acres of state owned land that seemingly went missing from the books. The reforms from Sen. Patrick Testin and Rep. Tony Kurtz will curtail the annual budget of Knowles-Nelson as well as ensure there is greater transparency in purchases made under the program.
Read the full report about the necessary reforms here.
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Coming Soon
Wisconsin Eyes Consolidation of IRIS Contract Amid Questions About Contender
The state Department of Health Services is in the final stages of awarding a 10-year long contract to run the state's self-directed care Medicaid program, IRIS. We take a look at the coming decision, specifically the checkered track record of one of the main contenders for the contract.
You Should Know
Wisconsin Employers Unimpressed With Wisconsin Education
The latest Employer Survey from Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce shows that bosses in the state feel schools are not teaching enough basics. WMC's report found 64 percent of employers indicated their employees struggle with reading, math, or both.
Quick Click
Wisconsin Assembly Okays Real Meat Labeling Plan
The Wisconsin Assembly last week approved a plan to require lab-grown meat to be labeled as lab-grown. If the plan becomes law, Wisconsin would join a number of other states including Oklahoma, Colorado, Utah, South Dakota, Iowa, Tennessee, North Dakota, Kansas, Missouri, and South Carolina which already have lab-grown meat labeling laws.
For Your Commute
A revamped MacIver Report will be coming soon!
About MacIver Institute: The MacIver Institute is a Wisconsin-based think tank that promotes free markets, individual freedom, personal responsibility, and limited government. Through research, analysis, and community engagement, we work to advance these principles and positively impact the lives of all Wisconsinites.
Last Update: Jan 26, 2026 1:22 pm CST
