FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                              
May 22, 2019
CONTACT: Rep. Jim Steineke                                                                              
(608) 266-2418

Steineke Supports Increased Education Funding

MADISON – Assembly Majority Leader Jim Steineke (R-Kaukauna) along with Assembly Republican colleagues gathered for a press conference this afternoon to announce their continued commitment to Wisconsin students and schools. The Assembly Republican education plan would once again focus on funneling dollars directly into classrooms.

“Something that everyone can agree on is that successful students today leads to a successful future for Wisconsin,” said Rep. Steineke. “As has always been the case, investing in Wisconsin students and schools is a top priority of mine.”

The Assembly Republican plan creates a $200 increase per pupil in the first year, and an additional $204 per pupil in the second year of the budget, with a majority of these funds being directed into classrooms. The foundation of this proposed education budget mirrors the current budget, which was referred to as a “pro-kid budget” by Governor Evers when it was introduced.

Additionally, the budget returns the state to its commitment of two-thirds funding of K12 schools – a priority that Assembly Republicans identified at the beginning of the session.

“At the start of the year, we committed to continuing to invest in and prioritize our students, and this budget proposal makes good on that promise,” continued Rep. Steineke. “Just as we approved a historically pro-kid budget during the last budget cycle, Assembly Republicans are ready to do so again.”

The proposed education plan also increases special education investments and mental health programs. In addition, high-cost transportation is fully funded under the spending plan, with funding targeted towards rural schools.

“All students in Wisconsin deserve access to the best possible education,” said Rep. Steineke. “I’m proud to say this budget will continue making significant investments in our kids’ education, without allowing property taxes to increase like they would under Gov. Evers’ proposal.”

The Joint Committee on Finance will vote on the budget for the Department of Public Instruction on Thursday.

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