Assembly Speaker Mike Sheridan's statement on the Senate Democrats' budget package:

"In the face of a historic $6.6 billion deficit, Assembly and Senate Democrats were charged with the responsibility of making tough decisions to balance our state budget and get Wisconsin on a path to prosperity once again.

"While there are some differences in the Assembly and Senate versions of the budget, it is clear that we share the same basic priorities and values. We have created a common-sense budget plan that makes the deepest spending cuts Wisconsin has ever seen; protects the overwhelming majority of Wisconsin workers and families from income, sales and payroll tax increases; and preserves critical investments in economic development, education, health care, job creation and support for local communities.

"Over the coming days, leadership from both houses and both sides of the aisle will meet to iron out the final version of the budget. Assembly Democrats are committed to passing this budget on time, and we are on track to meet that goal."

-- By Greg Bump