Democrats, consumer groups criticize special session bills
MADISON (WSAU) Consumer groups and Democrats are blasting some of the bills Governor Scott Walker proposed for another special legislative session on the economy. The Republican governor included about 30 bills when he called for the session that’s scheduled to begin today.
One of the more controversial bills would allow discounts on utility rates to encourage new-and-expanded industries. But Charlie Higley of the Citizens Utility Board says families and small businesses would have to cover those discounts with higher electric bills – and he called it a “hidden fee.” Higley also took issue with Walker calling the business discounts “tax relief” because of the economic growth it’s designed to create. Business trade groups supported the change.
Meanwhile, Democratic Assembly leader Peter Barca says some of Walker’s economic bills won’t create new jobs. Critics said one example is a bill to limit the size of new piers to 200 square feet, expanding upon controversial limits adopted during the Doyle years to protect Wisconsin lakes.
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