Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB868

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/2/24
• Refer: 1/2/24
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Eliminating and modifying certain provisions enacted under 2023 Act 12 regarding the city of Milwaukee and Milwaukee County. (FE)

Impact

The proposed legislation would significantly impact the financial governance of Milwaukee County by reducing the accountability measures imposed by the previous act. By removing the annual reporting requirement, the bill could lead to less transparency regarding how the sales tax revenues are allocated and spent. Additionally, the relaxation of restrictions on cultural and entertainment spending may provide more financial flexibility but raises concerns over prioritization of expenditures which could benefit special interest groups over public needs.

Summary

Assembly Bill 868 aims to modify or eliminate certain provisions enacted under 2023 Act 12 concerning the city of Milwaukee and Milwaukee County. This bill eliminates the requirement for Milwaukee County to submit annual reports to the Joint Committee on Finance regarding the use of revenues from a sales tax levied specifically to cover unfunded retirement system liabilities. It also repeals provisions that limit the county's spending on cultural and entertainment matters as well as certain structural regulations on job creation and budgeting processes within the county.

Contention

Various stakeholders have expressed concerns regarding the implications of Assembly Bill 868. Advocates of fiscal transparency argue that the removal of reporting requirements could foster mismanagement or inefficiencies in how taxpayer funds are spent, particularly regarding pension liabilities. Supporters of the bill assert that eliminating bureaucratic hurdles will allow local governments to operate more efficiently. However, opponents fear that this could undermine public trust and oversight mechanisms crucial for responsible fiscal management.

Provisions

Additionally, the bill makes provisions for the fire and police commission of Milwaukee to have authority over policy prescriptions for both departments, shifting some administrative powers away from the chiefs of these departments. This aspect may provide an opportunity for more cohesive policy formulation but could also stir political contention over the allocation of authority within emergency services. Overall, the balance of power within city governance is a critical area of contention regarding this bill.