LA CROSSE, Wis. — A press meeting was held in La Crosse on Tuesday by State Representative Jill Billings to talk about her campaign to get people to vote “no” on two constitutional amendment questions that will be on the August 13 ballot.
The government would not be able to give up its power to decide how federal money should be spent if the first question is answered.
The second question would also make it illegal for the governor to spend federal funds received on behalf of the state without first getting approval from the lawmakers.
Representative Billings says that Governor Evers would not be able to help small businesses that need money, like he did in 2020.
“We knew it was important to have someone who could act quickly and help people in Wisconsin.” That includes the help that was given to little companies. That includes the help that was given to small nonprofits that work in our neighborhoods to keep their doors open, says Rep. Billings.
Eyes of Light Stained Glass in La Crosse has been run by Penny Fassler for almost 20 years. It’s important to her that small businesses like hers don’t go without money during tough times.
“They did nothing for our businesses when we needed help in 2020; we can’t trust them to do the right thing the next time we need it.” Small businesses depend on each other to do well. Fassler says, “When one storefront goes dark, the whole neighborhood feels it.”
“Those lawmakers shouldn’t be able to get in the way of what the people need to get better.” Rep. Billings says, “They shouldn’t be able to get in the way of business owners who run nonprofits that help our communities.”
Billings says she will talk to people in her area about the upcoming vote and why she thinks they should vote no.
In answer to the Democrats’ concerns, State Representative Rob Summerfield and State Senator Jesse James said in a joint statement, quote, “The two referendum questions on the August ballot are not partisan issues; they are common sense improvements for more accountability.” Individuals should be able to have a say in how Wisconsin dollars or federal funds given to our state are spent. This can be done through their lawmakers. Every part of the government should be able to work together for the people and be sure to stay in line.
Source: WEAU
