Gov. Scott Walker's recently proposed tax cut cleared its first hurdle when it was unanimously approved by the Joint Finance Committee on Tuesday.
The $100-million property tax cut was introduced last week by Walker, three days after Democratic challenger Mary Burke announced intentions to run for governor. Four groups, including the Wisconsin Builders Association, registered their written support to funnel money to schools to hold down property taxes.
Despite the written support, there was no testimony for or against the measure taken up by the bipartisan Joint Finance Committee, leaving lawmakers to debate it amongst themselves.
State Sen. Bob Wirch, D-Somers, noted the average property tax payer would save $13 this year and $20 next year.
“The majority party has given massive tax cuts to wealthy individuals and corporations and now we are bragging about over a little over a dollar a month in tax relief for property owners,” said Wirch. “So I think it’s important to put this in perspective.”
Rep. Dale Kooyenga, R-Brookfield, responded to Wirch's comments by saying that the state's revenue growth is improving and Walker wants to share it with the people.
“You say it's for corporations or rich people,” said Kooyenga. “It's not. Middle-class people across Wisconsin who own homes who pay taxes are seeing tax relief. And what's exciting it's not over. We're going to keep at this.”
Walker said he hopes to sign the bill by the end of the week.
