Assembly Republicans are continuing a push for the legislature to review how federal stimulus dollars are spent.
The GOP wants an oversight committee formed to review proposed projects that would rely on federal stimulus funding. Representative Dean Kaufert (R-Neenah) says lawmakers should have a say in the process, rather than just allowing a committee established by the governor to have the final say.
The measure was introduced on the Assembly floor last week, but majority Democrats delayed a vote. Kaufert believes it still has a chance to pass. He says some Democrats have said they sense the need for oversight, accountability, and transparency in the process.
However, several Democrats argue the proposal is intended to slow down the process of using the stimulus money. Kaufert admits there is a need for urgency, but we shouldn't be left to ask if the money was spent properly after it's all gone.
Wisconsin could receive about $2.4 billion in aid under the current federal stimulus proposal.
WHBY's Rick Schuh contributed this report.
AUDIO: Andrew Beckett reports (MP3 1:02)
