Just a few months ago, Governor Evers slashed the largest tax cut in state history, turning $3.5 billion in tax relief into less than $175 million in income tax relief for Wisconsin families. Unlike the Governor, Assembly Republicans believe Wisconsin taxpayers should keep their money in their pockets, not the government's checkbook.

Wisconsin residents are among the most highly taxed earners across the country. This coupled with crushing inflationary pressures has made affording everyday life a financial struggle. Assembly Republicans re-introduced and passed the middle-class tax cut with the "Returning Your Surplus" legislation with one goal in mind: providing tax relief for the people of Wisconsin, whether you're working or retired.

The plan is estimated to cut the state's income tax burden by over $2.9 billion with the average filer saving $772. This legislation includes the creation of a Tax-Free Retirement as well as a middle-class tax cut to provide widespread relief. In addition to exempting up to $150,000 in retirement account income for joint filers, this legislation would reduce the middle-income tax rate from 5.3% to 4.4%, helping the typical Wisconsin family, which makes an average of $67,000 a year.

A tax-free retirement is an important opportunity to stay competitive with our surrounding states, making sure Wisconsin is a great place to live, work, and retire. For 98% of Wisconsin residents who pay income taxes on their retirement, it would now be exempt.

It’s unfortunate that Governor Evers is already threatening to veto this tax relief, but I hope he hears from the people of Wisconsin and changes his mind when it reaches his desk.