MADISON – An hour after State Representative Jessie Rodriguez (R-Oak Creek) made public her intention to introduce a bill requiring Wisconsin to opt-in to the new federal school choice tax credit, Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers has already expressed his intention to refuse to join the program. Rep. Rodriguez issued the following response:
“It’s unfortunate the Governor does not intend to opt Wisconsin into the new federal school choice tax credit, which would give dollar-for-dollar tax credits to people who donate to organizations that award scholarships for students in private and public schools.
“I fear the Governor may not understand the policy too well. He claims that opting our state in would be ‘catastrophic’ to public schools, but the federal tax credit can benefit students in private and public schools alike. This program isn’t about one type of school. It helps public, private, charter, and homeschool families access the tools their kids need to succeed. These scholarships can be used for tutoring, transportation, or supplemental courses that directly support children in the classroom.
“Having Wisconsin join this federal program should be a slam dunk! This opportunity comes at no cost to Wisconsin taxpayers. The program is funded entirely by private donations incentivized through a federal tax credit. This is a chance to bring more resources into our classrooms – public, private, rural, and urban – to help our children succeed.
“Governor Evers: I ask that you reconsider your decision and opt-in to the federal school choice tax credit. All kids deserve our support, not just those in public schools. Let’s put the partisan politics aside and do right by Wisconsin’s children.”
