MADISON - Wednesday, the State Senate passed bipartisan legislation that would provide a substantial increase in shared revenue funding to our local communities. Senate Democratic Leader Melissa Agard (D-Madison) released the following statement:

“For more than a decade, Democrats have been strong proponents of supporting shared revenue increases. We’ve heard from local leaders throughout the state that their communities have been starved of the resources necessary to provide basic services to the residents they serve.

“During his campaign, Governor Evers elevated the issue of shared revenue to a statewide audience, echoing the voices of local government officials across Wisconsin. Thanks to the paradigm shift during the Governor’s campaign - the conversation shifted this session, and our Republican colleagues have finally joined us at the table.

“Under Governor Evers’ leadership, most local governments will see at least a 20% increase to their shared revenue payments from the state. This will make a significant difference to our local communities as they work to provide essential services to the people they serve, but this is not the finish line, rather a starting point.

“My Democratic colleagues and I will continue to pursue legislation that empowers local governments and creates communities where all Wisconsinites want to live, work, and raise their families.”