MADISON – Representative James Edming (R-Glen Flora) released the following statement after voting in favor of the 2019-21 State Budget (Assembly Bill 56) on Tuesday evening.
“For the past several months, I have been gathering feedback from the people of the 87th Assembly District on Governor Evers’ 2019-21 State Budget proposal. From the seven in-district budget listening sessions, over 900 survey responses, and many contacts to my office, the citizens of the 87th District shared with me their top priorities for our state’s next two-year budget. As the budget process unfolded, I did my best to advocate for these priorities and to make sure they were addressed.
“As I heard from folks around the 87th District throughout the budget process, one of the top items they wanted to see addressed was middle class tax relief. I am proud that this budget fulfills that request by reducing income taxes for middle class taxpayers by over $300 million over the course of the two-year budget without increasing taxes on farmers and manufacturers. Another budget priority for the people of the 87th District was continuing to increase investment in K-12 education. I am pleased that this budget builds upon the over $630 million in increased funding from the 2017-19 State Budget and increases funding for K-12 education by an additional $500 million.
“Also, during my time in the legislature, improving access to reliable high-speed broadband has consistently been one of the top priorities for my constituents. I am proud that, under the budget passed by the Assembly, $46.2 million is invested in the state’s broadband expansion grant program over the course of the two-year budget. This is the most funding for this program in its history and will allow for many more broadband projects to receive funding.
“With a piece of legislation the size of the state budget, there are certainly some parts of it that I do not agree with. However this budget addresses a number of the 87th District’s priorities in a fiscally responsible manner which is why it earned my support.”
The budget bill now moves on to the state Senate for further consideration.
The 87th Assembly District includes portions of Clark, Marathon, Rusk, Sawyer and Taylor Counties.
Last Update: Jun 27, 2019 10:03 am CDT
