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State senator briefs Holmen board on proposed budget deal with new special-education funding, rebates
Summary
State Sen. Brad Path told the Holmen School Board about a proposed state budget package that would add roughly $85 million in special-education aid in year one and $230 million in year two, increase general school aid modestly and create tax changes and rebate checks; board members raised questions about long-term predictability and trade-offs.
State Sen. Brad Path outlined a tentative budget package to the Holmen School Board on May 11, saying it would boost special-education funding and include a mix of tax changes and one-time rebate checks.
"In the first year, 2025–2026, we're talking $85 million of additional funding. And in the second year of the biennium, 2026–2027, we're talking additional $230 million," Path told the board, saying the increases would raise the state share of special-education costs to roughly 42% in year one and an estimated 50% in year two.
Path also described a proposed increase in general school aid (about $32 million for 2026–27 as presented to the board), the removal of state income tax on overtime and tips, and a plan for rebate checks of about $300 per individual filer and $600 for joint filers. He said the package as discussed that day would cost an estimated $1.8 billion and remains fluid as it moves through the legislature.
"We hear an awful lot about a budget surplus," Path said, adding that Wisconsin closed its prior fiscal year with a multibillion-dollar surplus and a rainy-day fund but that lawmakers are weighing short-term relief against future uncertainty.
Board members pressed on the trade-offs. "So my question is at what cost?" asked board member Barb Wench, reflecting concerns raised by some legislators that removing certain revenue sources or providing rebates could reduce the state's ability to sustain future education funding. Path acknowledged mixed reactions and said the proposal would go next to the Joint Finance Committee and could be amended before any final votes.
Local board members emphasized predictability for districts. Jennifer De said shifting funds into the revenue limit (rather than categorical aid) could help districts plan, and several members urged that any increase to special-education aid be durable rather than a short-term boost.
Path encouraged district officials and community members to continue providing feedback as the bill reaches the JFC and legislative floor votes later in the week.
What happens next: Path said the Joint Finance Committee will consider the package, with a potential floor vote to follow; he described the timing as uncertain and warned the details could change before final enactment.
