MADISON, Wis. — Rep. Neubauer released the following statement:
“Today, UW-Parkside announced their need to address a $4 million budget deficit.
“My thoughts are with every student, faculty and staff member that this difficult situation will directly affect. This is a dark day for higher education, and the reality is, it doesn’t need to be this way.
“Our higher education institutions deserve a better hand than they’ve been dealt by the GOP. Instead of prioritizing funding for our world-class universities in the state budget, legislative Republicans failed to invest desperately needed funds, leading to deficits across the system.
“We still have the chance to fix this. Next month, during Governor Evers’ special session, legislative Democrats are ready to use our state’s multi-billion dollar surplus to address the UW System’s $60 million budget deficit, fund the Child Care Counts program, and create a paid family and medical leave program. It’s just the right thing to do.
“Our community members are face-to-face with furloughs and spending cuts. There are livelihoods on the line across the UW System. Inaction on September 20th is unacceptable, and I hope my Republican colleagues see the gravity of this situation.
“I’ve spoken with President Jay Rothman, and we’re going to continue working together to minimize the impact of this difficult situation and to make sure our communities continue to have access to great educational opportunities and family-supporting jobs. This is a heartbreaking announcement, and we’re going to work hard to make it right.”
