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July 2009

A Budget Message from Govenor Jim Doyle

Today I signed a budget that confronts the worst global and national economic crisis in generations. The choices were not easy, but in the end, the budget I signed today protects middle class families, encourages business growth and upholds our core commitments to education, health care and public safety.

For the first time in over 30 years, this is also a budget that was completed on time, and I want to recognize the Democratic majority in the Legislature. States across the country are struggling with how to confront these severe economic challenges, but I am proud to say that here in Wisconsin, we worked together, stayed focused and got the job done.

While the economic crisis forced difficult choices – including $3 billion in spending cuts that mean layoffs, furloughs and other sacrifices – this budget makes careful use of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and positions Wisconsin to move ahead.

That means we are not raising taxes on middle class families. There is no general sales tax increase or general income tax increase. There’s no tax that will make you pay more at the pump. We held the line on property taxes. Families earning $60,000 or less won’t see tuition increases at state universities and colleges; for those who earn more, the increases will be modest and in line with past increases.

That means we are laying the groundwork for economic growth. This budget helps companies increase their research and development. It rewards companies that build and retain jobs here in Wisconsin. And it strengthens investors’ ability to grow companies here in Wisconsin – including a new tax break for capital gains that are put back into new businesses.

And, finally, that means we are keeping our commitments to our core values. This budget preserves funding for small class sizes, helps the kids who need it most and offers more support for rural classrooms. This budget keeps neighborhoods safe by keeping cuts away from local police and fire departments. And it maintains access to affordable health care, including the promise that every kid in Wisconsin can get health care coverage.

Throughout this process, I believed that the choices we made would reveal clearly who we are and what we value. I knew that if we came together, worked hard and made the right choices, we could pass a budget that upholds our priorities, invests in our future and strengthens Wisconsin for generations to come.

On, Wisconsin!

Jim Doyle
Governor

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