The Honorable Julie Lassa
Wisconsin State Senate
Room 109 South
State Capitol
P.O. Box 7882
Madison 53707-7882
Oppose Tax Payer Protection Amendment
Dear Senator Lassa,
I am writing to urge you to vote against the senate version of Assembly Joint Resolution 77. The version passed
by the Assembly last week still leaves voids left open and many questions unanswered.
Although the version passed last week does not limit local units of government directly, indirectly, it is one
of the largest tax shifts local governments have seen. Under the amendment, the shared revenue program, a program
that helps local governments tremendously, is not protected. Without protection of shared revenue payments, the
funding to local municipalities will decrease, which will ultimately place a bigger burden on the citizens through
higher taxes.
In addition, there are many other questions that are left unanswered with this proposed amendment. University system
funding is not addressed, having the possibility to further shift costs on to students through higher tuition.
Also, how does the State plan to handle two-thirds funding for public education and the Medicaid program?
The passage of this legislation came in the early morning hours while most residents had no idea of what was unfolding.
No public hearing was held on the proposal and no further studies were done to show what type of impact this legislation
would have in the near and distant future. Detailed analysis needs to be done on anything that amends the constitution
as it is the ultimate law that governs the state.
Once again, I urge you to oppose this proposed amendment. It does not address the needs of the citizens of the
State of Wisconsin, it only shifts the burden. Other measures such as reducing healthcare costs to the public and
private sectors would do more for Wisconsin taxpayers than
these bandage constitutional amendment attempts.
Sincerely,
Gary W. Wescott, Mayor
City of Stevens Point |
Read More about the Taxpayer Protection Amendment. |