Madison, Wis. — Since the beginning of the legislative session, Rep. Roe and Legislative Democrats have put forward legislation to lower costs and improve lives. It has been over 250 days since Rep. Ann Roe (D–Janesville) co-sponsored three major cost-saving bills—Free School Meals for All, Less for Rx, and the Homestead Tax Credit. Despite directly addressing affordability and reducing everyday costs for families, these bills remain stalled without Republican action.
While Republicans continue prioritizing proposals that would close public schools, offer tax breaks for the wealthy, and increase property taxes for working families, Rep. Roe and Legislative Democrats this week advanced a series of practical solutions to meet the challenges facing Wisconsinites.
On Monday, Rep. Roe co-authored the Keep Our Promise on Special Education Act, which requires the state to honor the special education reimbursement rates adopted in the 2025–27 State Budget. A recent Department of Public Instruction report found that current reimbursements fall short of the promised amounts, leaving districts without critical dollars.
The Legislative Fiscal Bureau estimates that the Janesville School District could lose up to $2.2 million in the 2025–26 school year and $2.8 million in 2026–27 if the state fails to meet its commitment.
“This is about keeping our word to students, families, and public schools. When the state underfunds special education, districts cut programs, shift resources, or again turn to property taxpayers just to meet basic needs. That is simply not acceptable,” said Rep. Roe.
On Tuesday, Rep. Roe joined Democrats in introducing legislation providing 14 weeks of paid family and medical leave to all Wisconsin workers. The proposal allows workers to care for a new child, recover from illness, or support a loved one without losing their paychecks.
“This program will become self-sustaining after the initial investment—similar to the unemployment system. It’s a smart investment,” Rep. Roe said. “No one should have to choose between caring for a sick parent, a new baby, or recovering from an injury and keeping their paycheck.”
Wisconsin also faces a significant shortage of forensic nurses—only approximately 537 statewide—resulting in delays in evidence collection and barriers to trauma-informed care. In response, Rep. Roe authored legislation to recruit, train, and retain forensic nurses across the state.
“This bill strengthens our healthcare workforce, improves access to justice, and ensures victims receive timely, expert care,” Rep. Roe noted.
To close out the week, Democratic lawmakers introduced a comprehensive Agriculture Bill Package to support farmers, strengthen local agricultural markets, bolster Wisconsin’s agriculture industry, and invest in rural communities. The package focuses on protecting farmland, promoting profitability, and ensuring long-term sustainability for producers.
“People across the state repeat the same wish to me – please help make living more affordable in Wisconsin. Democrats design and propose practical bills with funding attached to serve all Wisconsinites.”
“Sadly, the majority party simply ignores the reality of rising healthcare, food, housing and education costs. I really hope Republicans spend time in their districts, and they will return ready to get to work in 2026,” Rep. Roe ended.
