River Falls, WI — Representative Shannon Zimmerman (R–River Falls) released the following statement after passage of the 2025-27 biennial budget bill:
“It has been an honor to again work with my colleagues on the Joint Committee on Finance to create a budget that delivers on funding important priorities while also reducing taxes,” said Representative Zimmerman. “This budget reflects the concerns I’ve heard from constituents in my district. We managed to negotiate with Governor Evers in good faith to pass a budget that
works for all Wisconsinites.”
The biennial budget includes the following provisions:
$1.5 Billion Tax Cut
o Includes a tax cut for middle class families by broadening the second-lowest marginal income tax rate.
o Provides a retirement income tax exclusion on the first $24,000 of retirement income for single filers and the first $48,000 of retirement income for joint filers.
o The elimination of the tax on residential natural gas and electricity usage.
Investments in Education
o Over $500 million in special education for schools. The estimated proration rate would increase to 42% in the first fiscal year and 45% in the second fiscal year.
o Appropriating $30 million in aid for school mental health services to help support student and youth wellbeing. This will help reduce barriers to critical services.
Fixing Roads and Bridges
o Additional $322 million for the State Highway Rehabilitation Program to improve and maintain our state highway system.
o Provides $150 million for the Agricultural Road Improvement Program, including $30 million for local bridges and culverts.
o Includes $100 million for the Local Road Improvement Program Supplemental to support road projects across counties and municipalities.
