MADISON – Rep. Jessie Rodriguez (R-Oak Creek) recorded the following response to the Budget Address delivered by Governor Tony Evers:
“‘We must continue to make smart and strategic investments while staying within our means.’ Do you know who said that? Governor Evers, during his State of the State Address just 4 weeks ago. So why, then, has he introduced a budget proposal that spends the entirety of the ongoing and one-time state surpluses and then some?
“Many of the governor’s budget proposals are non-fiscal policy ideas that should be introduced as bills and vetted through the legislative process – and many of them will be! This is not what a budget bill is for. Our budget will adjust our state’s revenues and appropriations to fit the current needs and priorities of Wisconsinites.
“Still, I’m certain there are areas in which we can find common ground with the governor. Two priorities I know we share are student mental health and funding for special education. Our solutions to these needs may differ, but we can agree that investing in our kids is an investment in the future of Wisconsin.
“In the coming months, I will be asking for your thoughts on the budget in a variety of ways. I’ll distribute a Budget Survey and hold In-District Listening Sessions. To keep an eye out for these, I encourage you to sign-up for my E-Update. You can also contact my office to share your thoughts on the budget or other legislation at any time.
“I remain optimistic that we will find common ground and have a bipartisan budget signed by Governor Evers in time for the start of the new fiscal year in July. I’m looking forward to getting started!”
