MADISON – Today, Senator Mark Spreitzer (D-Beloit) and Legislative Democrats introduced the Lowering Costs, Improving Lives package to help seniors and working families across our state, including as the lead author of legislation to expand Wisconsin’s Homestead Tax Credit. The three-bill package would reduce the tax burden for renters and homeowners by expanding the Homestead Tax Credit, cut the costs of grocery bills for families by providing free breakfast and lunch for all children who attend public schools, and decrease prescription drug prices by capping the cost of insulin and ensuring that lifesaving drugs are affordable for Wisconsinites. Following the announcement of these bills at the State Capitol, Senator Spreitzer released the following statement:
“I am proud to stand with my Democratic colleagues to introduce this important legislation today. The Homestead Tax Credit has helped Wisconsinites with low or fixed incomes stay in their homes, and this bill ensures that it will continue to do so into the future. Unfortunately, the credit has not kept up with inflation and has not increased since 2010 – even with rents and home prices rising and housing affordability as an increasing problem for people across Wisconsin. I have been working on addressing the issues for years, and we have an opportunity this session to take action. People from across our district, from local elected officials to seniors on fixed incomes, have reached out to me in support of this proposal and have urged action from the State Legislature. Expanding the Homestead Tax Credit is a commonsense policy that provides relief to those who need it most.”
“I have heard from countless constituents that rising costs are holding them back. We must take action to help Wisconsinites save money on groceries, prescription drugs, and housing. Our Lowering Costs, Improving Lives package will help people across Wisconsin address the high cost of living, and provide much needed relief to families and seniors.”