Rep. Subeck on State Budget: Wisconsinites Deserve Better

MADISON – Today, the Wisconsin State Legislature will complete its work on the state’s 2025-2027 biennial budget. Representative Lisa Subeck (D-Madison) released the following statement in advance of the Assembly vote.

“While Wisconsinites await what may very well be the most destructive and extremist federal budget in modern history, Republicans in the state legislature have forced through a state budget that does nothing to alleviate their fears. Assembly Speaker Robin Vos created an artificial timeline to leverage a rushed deal to pass the budget before the President signs his big ugly bill.

We fully expect Congress to kick the most vulnerable Wisconsinites off their health care and slash food security programs, increase utility bills, and force closings of hospitals and nursing homes. By passing our state budget today, Republicans in our state legislature avoid dealing with the problems created by their leader, President Trump, leaving hardworking Wisconsinites on their own to pay the price.

The budget before us today also provides a mere fraction of the needed investment in our public schools and does not meet the health needs of our communities.  It fails to reauthorize the Knowles Nelson Stewardship program, doing absolutely nothing to preserve conservation lands or strengthen our outdoor heritage. Domestic violence survivors and sexual assault victims are left behind, as this budget does not even begin to address the needs of our shelters and other victim services facing a loss of federal funding.

While Republicans will claim victory on their tax plan, it comes with a $1.3 billion price tag over the next two years and will cost the average Wisconsin family more in property taxes than it saves them. Our state budget should be a reflection of our priorities and values. We need stronger investments in our schools, universities, public lands, and communities. Instead, hardworking families will pay more for less than they deserve.

I appreciate the hard work done by the Governor to negotiate and improve on what Republicans presented. That said, the end result does not meet the needs and values of my constituents, which is why I am voting no today.” 

Rep. Subeck represents the 79th Assembly District, and serves as Chair of the Assembly Democratic Caucus.