http://newiprogressive.com/images/stories/S5/trump-tariffs-s5.jpgSession could help family farms increase access to new markets and maximize their ability to compete in the current economic environment crippled by President Trump’s disastrous trade war.

MADISON – Last week in his State of the State Address, Governor Tony Evers called for a special session to pass legislation aimed at supporting farmers during the current economic crisis undermining family farms throughout Wisconsin. Today, Legislative Democrats held a press conference to support the governor’s plan and to call on Republican legislators to take up this important legislation before adjourning for the year. Assembly Democratic Leader Gordon Hintz (D-Oshkosh) released the following statement:

“State government must do everything in its power to support family farms who built Wisconsin’s reputation as ‘America’s Dairyland.’ I applaud Governor Evers for taking decisive action to be proactive and use the tools available to provide support during the farm crisis that is effecting rural communities across Wisconsin. The special session bills are focused on a number of measures that will help family farms increase access to new markets and maximize their ability to compete in the current economic environment crippled by President Trump’s disastrous trade war. Republicans in the legislature have already wasted a year without taking action on this issue, many of which were included in Governor Evers original budget proposal. Adjourning without taking any action to help our farms would be a huge missed opportunity.”

New revenue estimates from the Legislative Fiscal Bureau project a net balance that is $451.9 million above what was expected. The governor’s proposed legislation in the special session call would cost $8.5 million.

“We could begin addressing the needs of farmers in our state with less than 2% of this new state revenue. Democrats are proud to support the governor’s meaningful and comprehensive approach to help our rural communities succeed. Every member of the legislature should understand that inaction is not an option. If Republicans choose to adjourn early and ignore proposals that should have bipartisan support, they should be held accountable for their inaction.”