Shilling Criticizes Republicans For ‘Infighting’ Over Transportation Budget

The leader of state Senate Democrats says it’s up to Republicans in the state Legislature to come to a consensus on how to close a nearly $1 billion transportation budget gap.

Senate Minority Leader Jennifer Shilling, D-La Crosse, criticized Republicans on Wednesday for ongoing disputes over how to close the budget gap.

“Really, it’s the right hand doesn’t know what the far right hand is doing,” Shilling said.

Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, R-Rochester, has said all options should be on the table to close the gap, including raising the gas tax or vehicle registration fees. Gov. Scott Walker said he’ll veto any tax increase that doesn‘t come with a corresponding tax cut.

Republicans grilled state Department of Transportation Secretary Mark Gottlieb during an hours-long hearing Tuesday.

Shilling said Republicans have had four budgets to address the state’s potential transportation budget shortfall, so now they “own” the problem.

“I’m a curious observer right now within the political infighting of the majority party,” she said.

Shilling said she believes all options should be on the table to close the budget gap – including a tax increase.