MADISON (WKOW) — A coalition of Democratic lawmakers reintroduced the Wisconsin Green Amendment Wednesday at the state Capitol. The amendment would enshrine Wisconsinites’ right to a clean, safe and healthy natural environment in the state constitution. 

They want the state government to do more to mitigate environmental concerns like PFAS contamination, nitrate runoff, air quality issues, lead contamination and climate change. 

During a press conference, Sen. Mark Spreitzer (D-Beloit) pointed out Wisconsin’s ties to environmental protection. The founder of Earth Day, Gaylord Nelson, is from Wisconsin. 

Spreitzer said, if enacted, the amendment would help preserve big economic forces in Wisconsin, even as a changing climate is leading to warmer winters that threaten parts of the state’s tourism industry. 

“Wisconsin’s natural beauty resources and outdoor economy are an invaluable part of our state’s identity,” he said, “Like many of you, I grew up canoeing on Wisconsin’s rivers, fishing in Wisconsin’s lakes, camping in Wisconsin state parks and hiking on our state trails, and future generations should have those opportunities as well.”

In order for the amendment to become part of the state constitution, lawmakers will need to approve it in two successive legislative sessions and voters would need to ratify it.

The amendment is co-sponsored by Spreitzer, Rep. Darrin Madison (D-Milwaukee), Rep. Angela Stroud (D-Ashland), Rep. Vincent Miresse (D-Stevens Point), Rep. Angelito Tenorio (D-West Allis), Rep. Maureen McCarville (D-DeForest), Rep. Lori Palmeri (D-Oshkosh), Rep. Alex Joers (D-Middleton), Rep. Jenna Jacobson (D-Oregon) and Sen. Jodi Habush Sinykin (D-Whitefish Bay).