Legislative Republicans adjourn special session in seconds
MADISON, Wis. – Yesterday, the Republican-led Senate and Assembly gaveled in and out of a special session to take up Governor Evers’ plan to use a portion of the state revenue surplus funds. The governor’s proposal would have given nearly $1.7 billion of Wisconsin’s projected $3.8 billion revenue surplus back to Wisconsinites. This included providing a $150 refund payment to every resident, expanding the Child and Dependent Care Credit, creating a Caregiver Tax Credit, and investing $611 million in K-12 education. Rep. Sondy Pope (D-Mt. Horeb) released the following statement in response:
“Legislative Republicans have once again missed an opportunity to uplift the people of Wisconsin and invest in education. By gaveling in and out of yet another special session and refusing to work with Governor Evers, my Republican colleagues have made it abundantly clear that they are more interested in political games than the needs of the people. The Assembly is scheduled to have its last week of session this week, however, Republican leadership instead chose to end session early while there is clearly much work to still be done.”
“Despite the fact we are seeing the cost of living increase as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, Republicans would rather wait until the next biennial budget is passed to use the surplus funds. This money belongs to the people of our state, and they need it now. There is no excuse to wait to invest in Wisconsin’s families and schools.”
“I am extremely disappointed that this inaction by my Republican colleagues will cause our schools to miss out on hundreds of millions of dollars. These investments would have provided our students, teachers, and schools with essential resources to help overcome the challenges of the pandemic and ensure every student receives the highest quality academic experience.”
