On Thursday, Republicans unveiled a local government funding plan at press conferences across the state. The proposal devotes 20% of state sales tax revenues to local governments or approximately $1.5 billion. Every local government will see at least a 10% increase in their shared revenue.

More than $500 million in new money will go towards innovation and public safety. Here's the breakdown:

• $300 million Innovation Fund to encourage efficiencies, cost savings, and consolidation
• $227 million for law enforcement, fire, EMS, public works, and transportation

INNOVATION FUND

• Three-year pilot program
• The state will provide a financial incentive if local governments come together and provide a service more efficiently
• Allows local units of government who contract with private or non-profit entities to provide services and recognize savings to qualify for innovation fund payments

PUBLIC SAFETY FUND

• Triples funding for existing grants to local governments to upgrade their 911 systems
• Provides significant increases for EMS providers to go towards ambulances, equipment, and durable medical supplies
• Doubles the state reimbursement funds for officer training costs
• Ensures law enforcement services are maintained and not subject to cut

This is the single largest investment in local governments in the history of Wisconsin!