On the Issues
Legislative Highlights
Building Wisconsin‘s Economy – We need to continue to grow our economy and help businesses have the opportunity to create jobs. I supported legislation to give local governments the tools they need to attract and retain companies in Wisconsin.
Seniors – I supported FamilyCare which will ensure that seniors are able to stay in their homes longer and remain active in our communities. I voted for legislation that would eliminate taxes on pension income making it more affordable to stay in Wisconsin. In addition, SeniorCare was protected so that over 107,000 of our state’s seniors have access to affordable prescription drugs.
Education – I have made it my mission to visit the great schools in my district over the past eight years. This has given me the knowledge to fight to continue our commitment for funding K-12 education at a record level of $12.3
billion over the next two years. In addition, I supported the virtual schools compromise for parents who seek other educational options for students in the K-12 educational setting.
Health Care – I believe access to affordable health care is critical to the residents of Wisconsin. I’ve worked to ensure that eligibility and benefits for Medical Assistance, Badger-Care and SeniorCare are protected. I also supported legislation to allow health insurance premiums to be tax deductible.
Taxes – I continue to work to hold the line on tax increases. I supported the continuation of the property tax freeze on local governments. Levy increases are limited to 3.86% or net new growth. Also, beginning with the current tax year (2008), social security benefits will be completely exempt from the state income tax.
Election Reform – I supported legislation requiring a photo identification to vote at polling locations. My goal is to make it easier to vote and harder to cheat.