MADISON, WI (WTAQ) – Governor Scott Walker made seven proposals for the coming year during Wednesday’s State of the State address.
Walker proposed using part of the state’s current surplus to create a new child tax credit.
“Families from across the state would receive $100 for every child under 18 living at home.”
The Republican governor is also calling for a healthcare stability plan that includes coverage for those with pre-existing conditions.
“This will provide comfort and stability to people all across Wisconsin.”
Walker says the healthcare plan would drive down premiums and increase choices, as Obamacare continues to fail.
Another new proposal would see Wisconsin make an additional $50-million dollar annual investment in rural economic development projects.
Walker says the money would primarily be used to stimulate private investment, improve productivity, and fill open jobs.
“This fund will support the development of new businesses and the expansion of small businesses in rural areas. It can assist in training more people to fill the positions being created by employers in rural areas.”
The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation would be in charge of the funds.
Other proposals include: expanding welfare reforms, ensuring student success at all levels, retaining young professionals, and continuing to reform government to benefit the people.
During the address, Walker also touted the accomplishments of this past year, which included: a historically-low unemployment rate, a record investment in K-12 education, eliminating the state property tax, and securing the largest economic development project in state history– Foxconn.
Not only did Walker discuss 2017, he also compared the state’s current climate to that before he took office seven years ago.
Walker notes the property tax on a median home has dropped roughly $100 since then, looking at what would have happened if the trend at the time he took office continued.
“The estimated property tax bill on a typical home in Wisconsin would be $612 higher than they were this year.”
Walker is seeking a third term in office in November.
After the address, Assembly Minority Leader Gordon Hintz (D-Oshkosh) issued his party’s response.
