Madison – On June 8th , the legislature unveiled a deal which will reform the state’s shared revenue program, increase funds for public safety and education, and eliminate the personal property tax. State Senator Dan Knodl (R-Germantown) issued the following statement:
“The legislature has been listening to our local governments and how they have been struggling, and I am happy to say that this bill responsibly addresses their concerns. After a long process involving much negotiation, I can confidently say that this legislation will benefit the entire state of Wisconsin for years to come with a record investment.
“It is critical that we protect the pensions of our brave police, fire, and EMS, who have committed their careers to our safety and security. All Wisconsin communities will be financially capable of supporting and even growing their police and fire protection services. Overall, this legislation is a win for public safety and it shows where the legislature’s priorities lie.
“This legislation also eliminates the personal property tax, an issue I have championed throughout my time in the legislature. Efforts to eliminate the personal property tax have been around for over one hundred years and have crossed party lines. Although this tax should have been gone a long time ago, I am happy that we can finally retire it in this bill.
“Finally, this bill invests the most money in education in our state’s history. That investment includes the largest-ever increase in the school voucher program, which I am especially proud of. I appreciate the hard work all levels of government have done on this bill. It truly shows how compromise and discussion create the best legislation.
As chair of the Senate Committee on Shared Revenue, Elections, and Consumer Protection, I look forward to helping these necessary reforms advance through the legislative process.”
The 8th Senate District includes portions of Washington, Waukesha, Ozaukee, and Milwaukee Counties.
