Madison –Legislative leaders Speaker Robin Vos (R-Rochester) Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu (R-Oostburg), Joint Finance Co-Chairs Mark Born (R-Beaver Dam) and Howard Marklein (R-Spring Green) released the following statement in response to Governor Evers’ veto of an 11-bill package which was crafted jointly by Assembly and Senate Republicans. They would have directed one-time federal ARPA funds toward priorities important to Wisconsinites, including: $500 million for broadband expansion, over $1 billion in aid to Wisconsin households, $150 million in grants to long-term care facilities, and over $300 million for local road funding.

“It’s not surprising, but it is disappointing the governor vetoed these bills because he still hasn’t put forth a plan of his own on how to help Wisconsin with these relief funds,” said Speaker Vos. “I’m glad he announced help for small businesses, but where is the rest of the money? Making vague promises in a press release is not a plan and Wisconsin deserves transparency in this decision making process.”

“The governor just sent a clear message to the people of Wisconsin that they will have little to no say in how their federal tax dollars are spent,” said Leader LeMahieu. “He has, once again, rejected the opportunity to work with legislators on even a basic spending plan. This is not good government.”

“It is unfortunate that Governor Evers has continued his go-it-alone approach. Billions of dollars should not be unilaterally spent by one person.” said Rep. Born. “Legislative Republicans advanced a package of bills that we know fund the priorities of Wisconsin residents. We also know that many of these bills include items the Governor has supported in the past, which is why this decision is so disappointing.”

“The Governor’s decision to veto these bills is very disappointing. We’ve heard over and over about the need to fund roads and broadband and the Governor has not yet answered this call,” said Senator Marklein. “I hope that he swiftly allocates these funds to meet the priorities of Wisconsinites.”

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