Republican warnings about the negative effects of the prevailing wage proposal went unheeded as the amendment offered by Dems passed on a partisan 12-4 vote.

Sen. Olsen said that the amendment offered by the Dems is "a little better" than the original proposal in Gov. Doyle's budget, but it will still be harmful to city and county governments and it will be an "economic sedative instead of an economic stimulus."

"This is a burden on our local units of government that they didn't ask for," he said.

Sen. Darling labeled prevailing wage a "potential job killer" and economic development killer.

Rep. Montgomery and all the Republicans said that the proposal should be pulled from the budget and taken up as separate legislation with a full debate.

But Rep. Pocan said that the subject was covered pretty extensively during budget hearings across the state. He said there are "myths and misconceptions" about the proposal. He said it will not only ultimately result in higher pay for workers, but it will not cause significant increases in construction costs. He said it also protects the public by providing for better overall quality in construction projects.

-- By Greg Bump