MADISON, Wis – Earlier today, the Wisconsin State Assembly Passed the Biennial State Budget Bill Assembly Bill 50 (AB50). In response, Assembly Assistant Democratic Leader Representative Kalan Haywood (D-Milwaukee) released the following statement:
“It is disgraceful that our state budget has been so negatively influenced by the recklessness of federal Republicans. The rushed process led to a budget that failed to put people first, and neglected so many of the needs of Wisconsinites. My Democratic colleagues and I offered several amendments to address these gaps which would have further increased funding for K-12 and higher education, and mental health. It would have expanded Medicaid, provided property tax relief, and provided resources for lead pipe remediation. Unfortunately, Republican leadership ignored these proposals, and an opportunity to make this a budget equitable and one that works for all.
“This budget was notably lacking in terms of helping communities of color. There is nothing here to extend postpartum medical coverage, no paid family leave, no Medicaid expansion, no additional school aids, no funding for mentorship programs, and no money for lead lateral replacement. These issues disproportionately affect communities of color, and the blatant lack of action on these programs is akin to a direct attack on these communities.
“We only get the chance to make meaningful funding impacts once every two years. It is unfortunate that Republican leadership put us all in a difficult position by unnecessarily dragging out negotiations until the careless, unpredictability of President Trump forced their hand.
“Despite these setbacks and shortcomings, Democrats were able to secure additional funding for public school districts through special education reimbursements and literacy funding. Child care centers will be able continue serving their communities for the near future, and crucial building projects will be funded.
“The provisions negotiated by Democrats mark a turning point in Wisconsin. Our citizens are seeing the beginning of a government that after years of gerrymandered unaccountability, is finally being responsive to their needs. It is my hope that we remain on this trajectory and continue to implement funding and policy changes that improve the lives of all Wisconsinites.”
