The adoption of a budget for 2021-23 is the major issue in the legislature at this time of year. This budget addresses the issues I believe are important and reflect our values. Governor Evers’ budget identifies many of the problems facing the state and how to move forward.

Very briefly, the budget increases aid to K-12 education and makes up for most of Walker’s deep cuts. It also increases aid to UW as well as constructing new buildings for Engineering and Letters & Science. The capital budget includes major improvements at Central Wisconsin Center and Mendota Center. It provides assistance to childcare facilities, which are now almost entirely supported by parent tuition. 

Most important for our community, the governor is seeking to address the problem of PFAS contamination of our water supply. As you know, PFAS were detected in the water from Well 15, which supplies much of the northeast section of the city. Two years ago, the city shut down the well. (For more information, visit cityofmadison.com/water/water-quality/water-quality-testing/perfluorinated-compounds#WellMap.)

The governor has proposed testing municipal wells across the state. Although we know of contamination in La Crosse, Rhinelander and Marinette, many communities are not aware of the problem in the water supply. These funds would provide testing in the more than 400 water systems. There are also funds to clean up the ground around sites where the source has been identified.

It is important that the entities that polluted the ground and water “clean up the mess.” Following the lead of states that have successfully filed lawsuits, the governor has asked the attorney general to seek damages from corporations and the U.S. Air Force for their role in the contamination.

If you have any questions or concerns about state policies and programs, feel free to contact me at Rep.Baldeh@legis.wisconsin.gov.