Joint Finance wraps up budget work

The Wisconsin State Capitol Building in Madison.

Posted at 3:40 p.m. on June 13, 2019

The Brillion News

MADISON – In the final day of Joint Finance Committee action on the budget, the Republican majority on Thursday, June 13, delivered a package that cuts taxes by over $500 million, but is drawing criticism from Democrats.

After spending months in discussions with community leaders, students, families and seniors, Governor Tony Evers crafted what he called “The People’s Budget,” but Democrats said the Republicans dismantled it, cutting massive increases in school spending, special education and Medicaid.

The GOP said the budget package they passed in committee is centered on a $300 million income tax cut that will be aimed at the middle class, while also providing nearly $60 million in property tax relief.

The action today (June 13) has ended the Joint Finance Committee’s action on the budget.

The final bill that will be sent to both houses of the legislature contains an over $500 million increase for schools, over $1.6 billion to improve access to health care without expanding Medicaid welfare, and nearly $400 million in new funds for transportation.

~ Sources: Republican and Democratic party press advisories