Local legislators are reacting to Governor Scott Walker’s proposed budget address. Republican Senator Howard Marklein represents the 17th Senate District. He said that while there were some promising areas in the budget, especially for rural schools, Marklein has concerns with certain aspects of the budget.
“The bonding level and particularly the proposal of bonding for our transportation, I think that causes me some concern and certainly will be taking a good look at that,” said Marklein. “Also, the cuts to the UW System, a $300 million cut for the next two years; I’m very cautious about if that’s even achievable and what the impact is going to be, not only to the university but to our students and our families. Also, the proposal for the new Bucks stadium in Milwaukee, I guess I don’t understand how that benefits us in southwest Wisconsin.”
Senator Democratic Leader Jennifer Schilling, who represents the 32nd State Senate District, said that the budget doesn’t reflect Wisconsin values, and that Governor Walker should focus on helping families and communities, instead of “traveling the nation in pursuit of his presidential ambitions.”
50th Assembly District Representative Ed Brooks said that the budget is a starting point and not permanent.
“Over the next several of weeks, the Legislature will make changes. And we’ll come up with a budget that is both balanced and fair.”
With the budget introduced, both the Assembly and Senate will be working on the proposal before voting on it sometime this summer.