Catherwood LibraryILR School

In response to a proposal from the Governor, Wisconsin public workers and supporters are going to the capital to lobby against it. The proposal would require workers to pay much more of health care and pension costs, and would limit collective bargaining rights to wages. Wage raises would also be restricted to the consumer price index unless there was a specific voter referendum. Walker says that his 'repair bill' will help the state overcome a $137 million deficit. Workers, many of whom called in sick to work to go to the capital, said that the cuts would hurt them and their families, especially those who were having trouble already. They also said cutting the rights of public workers would have lasting negative effects on the state. The Legislature has largely spoken in favor of the measures.