From Government Dependence to True Independence: Welfare Reform and the Dignity of Work
The ultimate freedom is controlling your own life and
setting your own destiny through work.
Nobody dreams of being dependent on the government.
For far too long here in Wisconsin and across the nation we’ve seen the sad
stories of cycles of dependency on welfare and other programs in the state and
the federal government – and that’s just wrong!
We’re good and decent people here in Wisconsin. We
want to care for our fellow citizen when they’re down and out, but we believe
public assistance should a trampoline, not a hammock.
That’s why we’re enacting forward-thinking reforms to
remove barriers to work and expand job training
programs for FoodShare recipients, veterans, the disabled, and ex-offenders.
We’ve found that, with a little help, these people can
move into the workforce on their own and serve as some of the greatest examples
of people feeling fulfillment and empowerment from earning their own money and
living independently.
When someone has a job they have peace of mind.
There’s a sense of pride among family and friends, and we want to empower
people to feel that fulfillment.
Wisconsin is once again a leader in welfare reform,
making it easier for people to find rewarding work and succeed in
family-supporting careers.
We are working and winning for Wisconsin.
Expanding Broadband Access Across Wisconsin
Last week, I traveled the state with leadership from
the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) to announce the availability
of an additional $7.5 million in Broadband Expansion Grants for Fiscal Year
2018 for underserved areas of the state. This grant cycle provides additional
funds recently approved in the state budget.
Internet access is a critical component of education,
business, and healthcare. The need for reliable, high-speed internet service is
an important part of life for Wisconsin’s families and businesses.
We
recognize that broadband access is critical for a modern commercial
environment, enabling businesses to reach customers and suppliers, and
permitting individuals to work from home.
That’s
why our new budget includes more funding for Broadband Expansion Grants than
ever before, allowing families and businesses throughout the state to access
fast and efficient internet service.
This
additional funding will provide Wisconsin’s families and businesses with the
technology and information they need to prosper in today’s global economy.
Applications
for the Broadband Expansion Grants are due at the Public Service Commission of
Wisconsin by January 25, 2018. Application instructions and additional
information can be found here.
Wisconsin Ends Fiscal Year 2017 with $579 Million Surplus
Wisconsin ends another fiscal year with a surplus!
On Monday, the Department of Administration (DOA)
issued the Annual
Fiscal Report showing Wisconsin ended Fiscal Year 2017
with a $579 million surplus, the second largest closing balance since 2000.
The undesignated balance was $126 million more than
expected than the 2017-2019 Executive Budget Fiscal Year 2017 estimate closing
balance.
Our state has had a
surplus every year since we took office in 2010, a testament to the success of
our common-sense, pro-taxpayer reforms.
We’ll continue to provide
dependable, accountable government for Wisconsin’s hardworking taxpayers.
We enjoy sharing all the great news about our state with you. It is an honor to serve as your Governor and represent the people of Wisconsin.
Sincerely,
 Governor Scott Walker
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