Wisconsin's biennial budget is the most far reaching bill the Legislature passes during a two year session. I've spent a lot of time talking about this bill during the past six months, and I've fought to make your voices heard.
Two weeks ago, the Assembly passed the budget and the Governor signed it into law. You can read my official statement on my vote here. I want to take this time to highlight some of the overlooked parts of the budget:
Increased Funding for the Green Bay Boys and Girls Club: The Boys and Girls Club operates a program called "Be Great, Graduate" which focuses on keeping at-risk youth in school and on track to graduate. The budget secured $150,000 for the program which will be matched by private donations. You can learn more about the program here.
Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Accounts: This provision allows 529-A, also known as ABLE, accounts to be opened in Wisconsin. The accounts are tax-deferred savings accounts for individuals with disabilities. ABLE accounts will create more financial stability and allow families to plan more effectively for the future. You can read more here.
Enhanced Dental Care Reimbursement: Brown County will host one of the pilot programs for increased Medicaid reimbursement rates for dental services. Proper dental health services are a serious concern among individuals with Medicaid. This is due, in part, to low Medicaid reimbursement rates. The pilot program created in the budget will allow more individuals with Medicaid to receive the care they need.
Increased funding for vulnerable citizens: The budget increased funding for the Mike Johnson life care and early intervention services for HIV or AIDS care, provided an additional $4 million for domestic abuse grant funding and an additional $2 million for residential services for victims of sex trafficking. Through the increased funding in these and other programs, our vulnerable citizens will be able to live better lives.
Overall, the legislature crafted a budget that freezes property taxes, gas tax, vehicle registration fees and University of Wisconsin tuition. This budget also has the lowest level of bonding since 1989. We spent within our means, and we moved Wisconsin forward.
Sincerely,
John Macco
Representative
88th Assembly District
Video on the Job: My first Speech
During debate on the Assembly Floor, it is customary to not outwardly express support or displeasure . The only time displays of support are allowed are for a Legislator's first floor speech as a way to welcome them to the Assembly Chamber.
I'm proud that during my maiden speech I was able to highlight the Boys and Girls Club of Green Bay and the creation of 529-A savings accounts for individuals with disabilities.
