Dear Friends,
When Governor Evers introduced his budget, one thing was very clear: our state couldn't afford it. It spent too much, it taxed too much, and it borrowed too much. He spent our record surplus and billions more.
The Governor wanted to increase spending by $1,000 for every resident in the state, he raised taxes by more than one billion dollars, and eliminated reforms that led to our strong economy. His plan wasn't just unsustainable, it was irresponsible.
Over the last few months, we have listened to folks from all over the state. We did our homework and we made sure the budget benefits everyone in Wisconsin.
Where the Governor's budget was lacking, we stepped up and improved it. Despite his massive spending and tax hikes, Governor Evers ignored workforce development in his budget. Republicans did not. Our plan helps create a pathway to success by training workers for the family-supporting jobs.
As our population ages, we need more personal care workers. That’s something we heard over and over again during the public hearings on the budget. Governor Evers’ budget didn’t do enough. So Republicans funded personal care workers at five times the level of the governor so our senior citizens can get the care they deserve.
From historic investments in K-12 education and healthcare, fixing our roads, and continuing to protect taxpayers, the Wisconsin budget is responsible and sustainable. It protects our shared values and moves our state forward.
Wisconsinites deserve to take pride in their budget, and we believe this budget gives them just that. We made targeted investments in people, not programs. Vetoing the bill in its entirety will have dire consequences for millions of people throughout our state.
As always, if you have any concerns or ideas on how to improve our great state, please do not hesitate to contact me by phone at 608-266-5830 or by email at
Sen.Darling@legis.wi.gov
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On, Wisconsin!
