Governor Tony Evers vetoed Wisconsin’s Assembly Bill 510 on March 29, 2024. The bill aimed to give parents the right to opt out of classes or instructional materials for reasons based on religion or personal conviction. It also would have required schools to provide timely notice when controversial subjects were being taught.
As a former science teacher, principal, and state superintendent, Governor Evers objected to the bill because he believed it would sow division in schools. He felt that creating division would only harm students and learning in classrooms.
While the bill did not specifically mention scientific topics, there have been past requests for students to be excused from evolution instruction. Both evolution and climate change are subjects of public debate, despite a scientific consensus on both topics. As such, Governor Evers was concerned about the potential impact of the bill on students’ education and well-being.
In his veto message, Governor Evers wrote: “This bill would undermine our commitment to providing a high-quality education for all Wisconsin students by allowing parents to opt out of classes or instructional materials based on religious or personal conviction.” He added: “I believe that our schools should focus on teaching critical thinking skills and preparing students for success in the 21st century, not sowing division and undermining their ability to learn.”
