Happy New Year!

With the end of another year upon us, now is the perfect time to reflect on what a great year 2017 has been.

When the budget was unveiled this spring, Assembly Republicans made it clear K-12 funding was a top priority. The 2017-2019 budget included a historic level of funding for our K-12 schools, more funding for the UW System and technical colleges, and another two year tuition freeze to help Wisconsin students save money on their college education.

The biennial budget also included more investment in worker training to help prepare people for jobs of the future. The budget included $11.5 million in grants for the Fast Forward program and another $1 million for career and technical education training.

To help small businesses in our community and throughout the state, I proposed a budget motion that required the Department of Revenue to use statistical sampling when conducting audits on businesses with sales below a certain threshold. This provision creates certainty for small businesses and prevents DOR from dragging out audits that are costly, time consuming and onerous.

Aside from the budget, my colleagues and I have continued to push bold reforms that have paved the way for a strong state economy. By continuing to eliminate overly burdensome regulations and government red tape that stifle job growth, more businesses are coming to Wisconsin, and southeastern Wisconsin continues to be an attractive location for manufacturers and companies of all sizes providing good-paying jobs.

Reflecting on this past year, we have so much to be thankful for and I’m looking forward to another great year in 2018.

Have a terrific New Year!