Budget adds taxes and fees

MADISON - Even in the sluggish economy with many people cutting back on expenses, the state of Wisconsin is actually increasing spending by 6.8 percent, according the state fiscal bureau. And there are several items in the budget that are going to force most Wisconsin residents to pay more.

Those who have a cell phone or land line phone will be paying a new fee of 75 cents a month for the phone to help pay for fire and police protection.

If you're looking to register a boat in Wisconsin to enjoy the state's lakes and waterways, you'll pay an extra 15 percent

The cigarette tax is going up again, the budget adds an additional 75 cents a pack.

And background checks for prospective gun owners will be an additional $5.

Democrats control the assembly and the senate and voted yes on the budget while republicans opposed the budget saying it taxes and spends too much. Democratic State Senator Dave Hansen of Green Bay says talk is cheap.

"They never had a plan if they were really interested in accomplishing something where would they have cut, what would they have cut?" questioned Hansen, referring to republicans in the legislature.

Those individuals in Wisconsin making over $225,000 or a household making $300,00 will also pay higher income taxes under the new budget.

And if you're a state employee you'll be forced to take off from work for 16 days without pay over the next two years. Also 1,400 other state positions will be eliminated.

Democrats say tough compromises had to be made, while republicans say the compromises made will make it difficult for struggling families.

"It impedes it because of the tax increases on state taxes and property taxes. Property taxes, $220 on an average home over the next two years, is this the time to do that to people?" said republican State Senator Rob Cowles of Allouez.

Completing the budget on time will qualify the state for millions if federal dollars which does help to avoid further cuts or taxes.