The budget forced through the Wisconsin legislature by Republicans takes effect today, and there certainly will be some changes taking place throughout the state as a result. Regardless of the political drama that captivated the nation leading to this bill, what most people care about is how it will actually affect their daily lives. At the most basic level, people want to know if this bill leave them better off. For most Wisconsinites, the answer is a definite no.
This bill will make life more difficult for
- Working families trying to raise kids (the bill reduces tax credits by $65m)
- Anyone on Medicaid ($500m in cuts)
- University of Wisconsin students (5.5% tuition hike)
- Children of undocumented immigrants (no more in-state rates)
- Middle school students who dream of going to college (a program that helps qualified students get financial aid)
- Public servants of all kinds (retirement age raised)
There were, however, a few beneficiaries:
- Former President Ronald Reagan (Feb. 6 is now "Ronald Reagan Day")
- People who are rich enough or have enough rich friends to run for office without public financing (it’s no longer available)