The Budget Begins

This week, Gov. Walker unveiled his recommendations for the 2017-19 biennial budget. Members of the Legislature will begin analyzing the two-year spending plan to find ways to improve the budget before it goes back to the governor for his signature later this year.

In his address, the governor highlighted aspects of his recommendations that are in-line with the Assembly Republican Forward Agenda released last year. In the recommendations, Gov. Walker included significant funding increases for K-12 education and the UW System.

Included in the funding for K-12 education are additional funds for mental health resources and Fab Labs. Many schools throughout the state are struggling to properly address mental health concerns with students. The additional funding will allow schools to address these concerns and provide necessary services.

Last year, I had the opportunity to tour the Fab Lab at South Milwaukee High School. Fabrication Laboratories, often referred to as Fab Labs, expose high school students to careers in engineering, skilled manufacturing and technology related fields by working with equipment common in those industries, including 3D printers, laser engravers and milling machines among others. The increased funding will provide more opportunities for students to be exposed to jobs of the future.

Perhaps most importantly, taxpayers were not forgotten in the address; the governor’s recommendations include tax cuts in state property tax and income tax. Assembly Republicans are committed to reducing taxes for hardworking Wisconsinites.

Fiscally responsible budgeting by Gov. Walker and Assembly Republicans in the past three sessions have made it possible to continue growing our economy, reducing taxes, and shrinking the size of government while providing more funding in crucially important areas.

This spring, I will be holding listening sessions in Oak Creek and South Milwaukee to discuss the budget, my legislative priorities, and to hear your input on issues that are important for our district and the state of Wisconsin. I’m confident we can improve on the governor’s proposal and create a budget that continues moving Wisconsin Forward.

Have a great week!