Key Republican “Hopeful” for State Budget Deal by Labor Day
Wisconsin is still operating under its 2015-2017 biennium budget, that’s because elected state official were not able to meet the July 1st deadline for a new budget.
A top Republican leader in the Wisconsin State Assembly, Representative John Nygren (R-Marinette), said, “I don’t believe we’re necessarily… very close to a deal with the Senate as far as final passage of a budget for transportation.”
Nygren called Republican disagreement over a transportation budget a “stumbling block”.
Nygren said Republicans in the Senate want to borrow more money to pay for road projects, and said Republicans in the Senate want to find a way to increase revenue.
Last week, Representative Amy Loudenbeck (R-Clinton) proposed a user fee for semi-trucks and other large vehicles.
Five Senate Republicans publicly announced their opposition soon after.
Monday, Assembly Speaker Robin Vos (R-Rochester) told Wisconsin Public Radio that he is disappointed the Senate won’t support the truck fee.
Nygren urged Republican senators to "come back with a counter solution", he also said, “simply digging your heels in isn't a way to get anything accomplished."
Nygren also hinted this delay could last weeks, and potentially months. The Joint Finance Committee Co-Chair said, “If we get past Labor Day, I think that’s the timeline people should be getting concerned.”
When asked if he believed a deal could be done by Labor Day, Nygren said he’s “hopeful.”
Assembly Minority Leader Peter Barca (D-Kenosha) said, “Together, all of them own this problem. Republicans have been in control of this state for six years.”