Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB854

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/22/23
• Refer: 12/22/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Replacing the expenditure restraint incentive program with a municipality payment program and making an appropriation. (FE)

Impact

The introduction of AB854 signifies a shift in how state funds are distributed to local governments in Wisconsin. It eliminates certain financial restrictions that previously affected municipalities with lower budgets, allowing all qualifying municipalities that received expenditure restraint payments in the prior years to benefit from more predictable and potentially larger payments. This shift could enhance local government capacities to manage budgets and plan long-term projects, as they will not need to navigate fluctuating fiscal restraints imposed by the previous program.

Summary

Assembly Bill 854 aims to repeal existing provisions related to the expenditure restraint incentive program and replace it with a new municipality payment program. This new program will provide financial payments to municipalities that qualified for the previous incentive program between 2021 and 2023. The objective of the bill is to establish a more streamlined method of distribution, ensuring municipalities receive consistent support based on their historical participation in the program rather than relying on restrictive budget conditions set by the previous framework. Starting in 2024, municipalities will receive payments equivalent to the maximum they previously received under the old program.

Contention

Key points of contention surround the transition from the expenditure restraint incentive program to the new municipality payment program. Supporters of the bill argue that this change will lead to more equitable funding for municipalities while promoting fiscal responsibility. Critics, however, may express concern about the sustainability of funding and whether the new program sufficiently addresses the diverse needs of various municipalities that could face differing economic challenges despite similar payment eligibility. Additionally, discussions may arise regarding the implications of the funding changes on local autonomy and decision-making capabilities.