DPI Looks For $1.6B More In Funds

The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction is asking lawmakers for an additional one-point-six-billion dollars over the next two-year budget. Deputy state superintendent Mike Thompson says the money would pay for initiatives in special education, equity, and mental health aid. Although Thompson calls the budget request “realistic,” at least one budget official says state agencies will be doing well to get close to the funding they received this year. State Representative John Nygren says schools are a priority, but he doesn’t want to raise taxes.