Wisconsin’s strong fiscal position creates an opportunity for common-sense tax relief, more support for schools and kids, lower property taxes, and comprehensive energy reform. New state fiscal estimates for 2025-26 project revenues $450.8 million above the nonpartisan Legislative Fiscal Bureau’s January estimate, putting Wisconsin on track for an estimated $2.8 billion surplus.

Wisconsin is in a strong financial position because we have made responsible decisions and kept spending in check. When government collects more than it needs, taxpayers should benefit. The Assembly passed a bipartisan $1.8 billion tax relief package with rebates, property tax relief, tax cuts, and increased special education funding. Every State Senate Democrat and a few Republicans rejected it, but these new fiscal numbers give us another opportunity to come together and deliver for Wisconsin families.

Lawmakers should build on that agreement by addressing rural energy concerns, including industrial wind and solar projects and the proposed 765 kV transmission line through the Driftless I recently joined Democratic legislators State Senator Brad Pfaff and State Representative Tara Johnson at a bipartisan forum in DeSoto, WI, to discuss energy reform and hear directly from residents. Senator Pfaff could help lead the effort in the Senate by working to include his energy reform ideas for the 765 kV line, including SB 1125, along with legislation such as SB 3 to restore local control over industrial wind and solar siting.

Families and communities across rural Wisconsin are looking for tax relief, more support for our kids, and meaningful energy reform. Republicans and Democrats should come together, find common ground, and deliver results for rural Wisconsin before November.

The 49th Assembly District includes all of Crawford County, most of Grant County, and a small portion of Vernon County. For questions or comments related to state government, contact Rep. Tranel at 608-266-1170 or Rep.Tranel@legis.wi.gov.