This past Thursday, Wisconsin’s Republican-led Joint Finance Committee (JFC) began voting on key elements of the next state budget, while negotiations continue between Democratic Governor Tony Evers and GOP leaders.

The committee approved funding for a youth firefighter training program and staffing for the Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS).  Specifically, JFC voted to extend five temporary call center positions at the Department for three more years.  These call center staff are important to small businesses as their job is to help credential & license holders across the state.

Unlike past budgets, this cycle may see more compromise due to ongoing talks between the governor and legislative leaders. Major issues like tax cuts and education funding remain at the centerpiece of negotiations and will likely allocate much of the state’s surplus revenue.

However, indications have come from budget insiders that much of the state’s surplus will be consumed by the skyrocketing cost of Medical Assistance programs like Medicaid.

JFC will continue its work on the budget during the month of June.  Stay tuned for more updates as action is taken.