Budget-Writing Committee Holds Agency Briefings

The Joint Finance Committee (JFC) held agency briefings this week as the committee began to delve deeper into Governor Walker’s budget recommendations. The briefings are the first notable phase in the budget writing process.

Budget briefings require the head of each state agency to testify before JFC to describe the governor’s recommendations and field questions from committee members.

The Department of Administration, Secretary Scott Neitzel, was the first to testify before the committee on Tuesday morning. The secretary touted Wisconsin’s investment in K-12 education, continued reduction in property taxes and efforts to battle addiction, a common theme echoed by the agencies. Many of the initiatives highlighted by the administration are in-line with the Assembly Republican Forward Agenda.

Secretary Ross, Department of Transportation, concluded Wednesday’s briefings that went late into the evening, highlighting efforts to prioritize safety and maintenance of Wisconsin’s transportation system. Assembly Republicans intend to address a long-term plan for Wisconsin’s transportation infrastructure.

With the conclusion of agency briefings this week, the committee will begin listening sessions across the state starting next week and ending in April. JFC will be in the Milwaukee area on Wednesday, April 5 at the State Fair Park – Exposition Center in West Allis to discuss the budget and answer questions. The hearing will run from 10 am – 6 pm, and is open to the public.

If you’re interested in watching the briefings from earlier this week, recordings are available on Wisconsin Eye.

Have a great week!

In-District Budget Listening Session

This spring, I will be holding an in-district listening session to discuss the budget recommendations and other priorities related to state government. A member from the Joint Finance Committee will join me to help answer your questions.

The listening session is open to all residents of the 21st Assembly District. Details indicating time and location are listed below. Hope to see you there!

What: Listening Session
Where: South Milwaukee City Hall
2424 15th Ave, South Milwaukee, WI
When: Thursday, April 13, 6-7:30 pm

Thanks for Visiting!

Students and members from Wisconsin’s independent colleges and universities visited the Capitol this week to meet with their state lawmakers as part of the Capitol Day for the Wisconsin Association of Independent Colleges and Universities.

Julia and Tom are constituents from South Milwaukee and Oak Creek respectively. It was a pleasure meeting with both of them to discuss the importance of Wisconsin Grants for college students in our district and throughout Wisconsin. Thanks for stopping by!