MADISON – Today, the State Assembly convened to take up a package of Republican-authored bills that would impose new requirements making it harder for Wisconsinites to access BadgerCare, revoke essential benefits from those who lose their jobs, and cut taxes for the highest wage earners. State Representative Jodi Emerson (D-Eau Claire) issued the following statement in response:
“The people of Wisconsin are hard-working and it’s an insult to say otherwise. In this time of low unemployment and high labor force participation rate, we know Wisconsin workers are not sitting on the sidelines. Adding burdensome new requirements to the BadgerCare and unemployment program won’t put more people in the workforce, but it will make it more difficult for our neighbors to access the services they need.
“Instead of demonizing and punishing Wisconsinites who use state programs, Republicans should be honest about the workforce challenges facing Wisconsin, which are being driven by changing demographics and people leaving our state. What Wisconsin workers need is affordable childcare, healthcare, housing, and access to transportation, not benefit cuts and tax breaks for the wealthiest.”
