Wisconsin Manufacturing and Commerce: Business groups issue statement on transportation finance

Contact: Jason Culotta
Phone: (608) 258.3400

MADISON – The following statement is released jointly by Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce, Cooperative Network, National Federation of Independent Business, the Wisconsin Auto & Truck Dealers Association, the Wisconsin Grocers Association, the Wisconsin Housing Alliance, the Wisconsin-Minnesota Petroleum Council, the Wisconsin Motor Carriers Association, the Wisconsin Petroleum Marketers and Convenience Stores Association and the Wisconsin Restaurant Association with respect to the Department of Transportation’s proposed 2015-2017 budget request.

“Our respective groups acknowledge the need for revenue increases in the Transportation Fund to meet critical infrastructure improvements. However, we question whether the amount of the revenue increases proposed by the Department of Transportation are appropriate.

We are also concerned about some of the proposed funding mechanisms, and the extent to which they may place Wisconsin employers at a competitive disadvantage.

Our organizations recognize the DOT proposal as a thoughtful set of options, but they are certainly not the only options available to generate additional transportation revenue. We collectively pledge to work with the Governor and Legislature toward transportation funding solutions that are fair and equitable.”