Final Remarks
Sen. Fitzgerald commended his caucus for staying on task and getting their work done today. He said the debate that took place laid bare the "major differences in philosophy between" Republicans and Democrats.
And he said he looked forward to the conference committee. "I hope that process is much different than what took place today," he said, bemoaning the lack of notice Republicans received on the Democratic proposals.
Sen. Robson lauded the Senate for passing a budget "in the light of day," reminding the senators that when the Senate was under control by Republicans during the last budget process, they didn't adjourn until 5 a.m.
She said the budget passed by the Senate "sets the priorities for the Wisconsin State Legislature," including education, health care, fair taxation and job creation.
Sen. Dale Schultz, the Republican from Richland Center who was the Majority Leader last session, took exception to Robson's remarks about work on the last budget lasting until early morning. He said it was through mutual agreement with the then-minority that they worked through the night to get the budget done on time. "No one in this room thinks this budget will be finished on time," he said.
