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Conflicting Views on the Proposed Surplus Deal
Wisconsin lawmakers are not the only ones with split opinions on the tax deal at the Wisconsin Capitol. Advocacy groups in the state are also split.
Lawmakers are scheduled to vote Wednesday on the plan to spend $1.8 billion of the state’s surplus on tax relief and schools. The package includes $600 million more for schools to either boost special ed funding, or “buy down” local property taxes. It also includes a plan to offer taxpayers either a $300 or $600 rebate check. There is also a proposal that would eliminate taxes on tips and overtime in the state.
The Wisconsin Association for Equity in Funding on Tuesday said it likes the plan.
“Fixing the revenue limit system needs to be the number one priority for the 2027-2029 budget. For now, an increase in general/equalization aid is important and attainable," AEF Board Chair John Gaier said in a statement.
But not all advocates are as supportive.
The Wisconsin Board for People with Developmental Disabilities said the proposal to boost special education funding looks like an empty promise.
“This continues a cycle of promises made and promises broken,” chairman Sydney Badeau said in a statement. “It is not a 50% reimbursement rate unless the money to pay 50% of the costs is there.”
The Board for People with Developmental Disabilities Wisconsin looks to be $500 million short for funding for disability programs, and this package doesn't solve that problem.
Another disability rights group, the Survival Coalition, is also coming out against the proposal.
“A phantom 50% reimbursement rate is not real unless there is a guarantee that sufficient funding will be provided to cover actual costs,” said Tami Jackson, Survival Coalition co-chair. “This proposal does not change special education from a “sum certain” to a “sum sufficient” appropriation."
The tax deal will go before lawmakers Wednesday morning, but it remains to be seen if it has enough votes to clear the Wisconsin Senate.
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