Contact: Rep. Rob Summerfield
June 25th, 2019 (608) 266-1194
Includes wins for Education, Healthcare, and Taxes
MADISON – State Representative Rob Summerfield (R-Bloomer) voted to approve the state’s biennial budget today, which includes another record investment in K-12 and higher education, increased funding for caregiver wages and nursing homes, and a middle class tax cut.
“I think this is a solid budget for the people of Wisconsin,” said Rep. Summerfield. “We invested in our priorities and delivered results; while being responsible stewards of taxpayers’ money.”
The budget includes an additional $500 million in K-12 funding, and $109 million for the first phase of the new UW-Eau Claire Science and Health Sciences building. If signed by the Governor, 2019-21 expenditures for public education would be the largest in state history and would total more than $1.1 billion invested since Rep. Summerfield has taken office.
The budget also more than doubles Governor Evers’ proposed Medicaid rate increases – providing a 7% increase for Nursing Homes and a 12% increase to Personal Care Workers compared to his 3%. In addition, over $125 million is provided for Disproportionate Share Hospitals, Direct Caregivers, and Children and Family Aids. Altogether, the budget invests $1.6 billion in Wisconsin’s healthcare system.
“With Wisconsin’s aging population, the Governor’s original proposal was not adequate to address their healthcare needs. That is why I introduced budget motions to increase Medicaid reimbursement rates for both groups by 10% – more than triple what Evers submitted,” stated Rep. Summerfield. “I am happy the Joint Committee on Finance (JFC) heard these concerns and included funding to ensure that all Wisconsinites will continue to have a strong healthcare system.”
To round out these wins, the budget also provides a $500 million middle-class tax cut to the hardworking people of the Badger State.
The budget now heads to the State Senate for their approval before heading to Governor Evers for a final signature.
