"We Saw the Republicans’ Plan, and the Governor’s Plan Was Better"

MADISON — Thursday, the final Joint Finance Committee (JFC) budget meeting concluded with a disappointing decision from the Republicans to cut taxes by over $400 million for millionaires over the biennium, rather than using the money to invest in our state. Despite constant objections to the state's capacity to fund necessary initiatives throughout the budget process, Republicans chose to squander the state's resources, favoring their wealthy friends instead of backing crucial investments that would support Wisconsin’s communities and foster a vibrant economy.

To keep Wisconsin’s child care industry afloat, Governor Evers proposed $340 million to continue Child Care Counts, a critical initiative to ensure Wisconsin's children receive the care they need and parents can participate in the workforce. Republicans rejected that investment last week, which will cause child care center closures statewide, in order to give that money and more to millionaires.

This glaring disservice to our communities highlights a clear disconnect between Republicans' priorities and the urgent needs of working families. After today's executive session, Democratic members of the Joint Committee on Finance issued the following statement

“The Republicans' decision today highlights a profound disparity between their fiscal priorities and the real needs of Wisconsinites. It's disheartening to see, after months of work, the opportunity to adequately invest in things like child care, mental health and growing our economy went to the wayside to accommodate unnecessary tax cuts for the wealthiest residents.”

“As we move forward to the next phase of the budget process, Republicans in the Legislature have a chance to rectify their misplaced priorities. The upcoming floor session provides an opportunity to address the urgent needs of our communities and lay the foundation for a vibrant, inclusive economy. We call on our Republican colleagues to seize this moment and join us in putting forth a budget that genuinely supports all Wisconsinites.”

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Contacts:
Sen. LaTonya Johnson — This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Rep. Evan Goyke — This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Sen. Kelda Roys — This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Rep. Tip McGuire — This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it