MI News Minute Podcasts
December 05, 2024 | By William Osmulski
Policy Issues
Accountable Government Economy Environment State Budget

Government Burden Not Limited to Taxes

Taxes might be low in Wisconsin compared to personal income levels, but that's only part of the story.

There’s a new study out that says Wisconsin has one of the lowest state and local tax burdens in the country.

The politicians are all high fiving over that news.

We have a lot of thoughts about that study’s methodology and math at the MacIver institute, but for now, I just want to share with you some notes about Wisconsin’s true economic situation.

According to the Bureau of Economic Analysis, between 2021 and 2022:

  • Personal income in Wisconsin went up less than 3% while inflation went up 6.5%.
  • Housing expenses in the state went up almost 11%, the 19th highest in the country.
  • Energy expenses went up a whopping 37.5%, the fourth highest jump in the country.

That last one really hits hard – especially considering all the lobbyists running around Madison hoping to consolidate monopolies and increase the gas tax next year. Also don’t forget, the government sets most energy rates in this state.

So sure – if you squint your eyes and tilt your head just right – it might look like state and local government is taking it easy on everyday folks Wisconsin – but the MacIver institute will always make sure that you have tough questions to answer about ridiculous like that.

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