Contact: Rep. John Nygren (888) 534-0089
Madison – State Rep. John Nygren (R-Marinette), Co-chair of the budget-writing Joint Finance Committee, released the following statement regarding the 2017-19 state budget bill, which passed the State Assembly earlier today:
“I am proud that we were able to pass a budget that prioritizes the best interests of taxpayers, students, educators, and our state’s economy. In this budget we were able to make historic investments in education while at the same time practice prudent fiscal budgeting which allowed us to hold the line on taxes and reduce borrowing. This is a budget that everyone should be able to get behind.
“From day one, we spoke about making K-12 education our biggest priority, and this budget does just that. The 2017-19 budget provides an additional $639 million towards K-12 education, real dollars that have an immediate impact on the lives of our students, educators, and parents. As the husband of a public school teacher, and father of children who attend public schools, I know that our children are the future leaders of our state. It’s crucial that we provide them with the best education possible.
“At the same time as making historic investments in K-12 education, conservative reforms over the past few budgets have once again protected the taxpayer. This budget does not raise sales, income, or property taxes. Property taxes will once again be lower than they were in 2010 when our conservative reforms began. Giving the taxpayers of Wisconsin more of their money is a good thing and we will continue to do so.
“After this budget, the transportation fund continues to be an issue that needs to be addressed. Assembly Republicans have long held the goals of both finding revenue sources for the transportation fund and reducing our unsustainable reliance on bonding for transportation. For the first time in over a decade, the state transportation budget includes new revenue streams. As conservatives, it’s important that what we practice what we preach, by not spending what we can’t afford. This budget was a great first step forward towards a much larger conversation that will be held and I look forward to having that discussion.
“After travelling to all corners of the state to hear the comments and concerns of Wisconsin taxpayers the Joint Committee on Finance got down to work. The Governor provided us with a great starting point, but I believe we made it better. This is a budget all of Wisconsin can be proud of and I am confident in saying it continues to move Wisconsin forward.”
