Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker signed the new two-year budget last Sunday. Parts of it got a lot of publicity. Other parts went through without much notice.
One item that has no fiscal impact on the state in any way but was included in the budget is the establishment of February 6th, the anniversary of Ronald Reagan's birth, as "Ronald Reagan Day" in Wisconsin.
According to the Associated Press, the budget also will allow movie theaters to apply for liquor licenses. Too bad they'll probably only have Miller and Bud Light on tap. The budget also restricts the way craft beers can be distributed.
The AP has compiled a list of some of the changes, large and small. Their article can be accessed here.
Executive summary: If you're poor, young, disabled, black, the offspring of illegal immigrants, a public employee, a student, a parent of a student, or are not rich...you're on your own. If you're anything else, you're getting a big, fat tax break!
Hey, that makes every day in Wisconsin "Ronald Reagan Day", doesn't it? Why limit it to one day?
At least that gives me time to plan my big "Ronald Reagan Day" party. Let's see...I think I'll have bottles of Budweiser "drowning" in a bathtub full of ice, a big pork roast for my closest friends, and a secret stash of appetizers for my Iranian guests. I'll finance the party on credit and leave the bill for my grandchildren.
You're all invited!