Rep. Kooyenga Introduces Budget Proposal 

Representative Dale Kooyenga (R-Brookfield) has introduced a constitutional amendment joint resolution requiring the state to "account for and report all funds it receives or expends in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP)."  

The resolution also requires that any deficit of a state fund affected by a budget bill be reduced annually by 10 percent of any projected increased in tax revenues in that fund.  Once the deficit is eliminated, the legislature would not be allowed to pass any bill that would result in a projected deficit. 

In announcing the proposal, Kooyenga said, "It is imperative that the state of Wisconsin address its GAAP deficit to provide transparency and accuracy to the biennial budget. Passage of this bill would not require a reduction in spending or prohibit the legislature's ability to cut taxes," (www.thewheelerreport.com).

To view the bill draft, click here:

Campaign Finance Bill Introduced

Representative Mark Pocan (D-Madison), Senator Dave Hansen (D-Green Bay) and Senator Fred Risser (D-Madison) have re-introduced this week the "Clean Elections Fund" legislation, which provides full public funding of state elections. The bill would require candidates to collect a set number of $5 contributions from the given district to qualify for public grants. 

Qualified candidates would receive a given grant amount for both a primary amount and a general election. The legislation is funded through general purpose revenue (GPR). 

To view the press release announcing the legislation, click here: http://thewheelerreport.com/releases/February12/0201/0201pocanrisserhansen.pdf