Wisconsin Misses Budget Deadline As Squabbling Continues At The Capitol

The new fiscal year started on Saturday, but Wisconsin still does not have a new state budget. That’s the result of a three-way Republican disagreement between the state Assembly, Senate and Gov. Scott Walker. They’re arguing over funding levels for things like roads, and education spending.

Speaking to Wisconsin Public Radio Monday morning, Assembly Speaker Robin Vos put the ball squarely in the Senate’s court.

“If you’re not willing to raise the revenues, it’s not conservative to borrow and spend, which is unfortunately what it seems like our Senate colleagues are talking about,” Vos said.

He said it’s up to the Senate to come up with something that can pass both chambers.

At this point, the impasse doesn’t mean a lot for the average Wisconsinite. State agencies can continue to operate under the last budget’s spending levels, so most state services will go unchanged.

But if lawmakers and the governor can’t come to an agreement over the coming months, road projects and school districts could be the first to see issues.

Local school districts in Wisconsin may face problems setting their budgets without knowing how much funding will be coming from the state.

Highway projects getting state funds may also risk being stalled. The Transportation Development Association of Wisconsin says that any delays could add millions in costs to taxpayers.