Rather than start debate on the state budget in the early morning hours, the Assembly opted for a good night’s rest. Lawmakers spent most of Tuesday in partisan caucus meetings, but briefly came to the floor just after 10PM to announce the body would recess until 9AM on Wednesday morning.
Assembly Majority Leader Scott Suder (R-Abbotsford) indicated that several hours would still be needed to finish drafting on a number of proposed amendments to the $66 billion biennial budget bill. The delay likely would have pushed the start of the budget debate until well after midnight.
Minority Leader Peter Barca (D-Kenosha) said his members will be ready to go when lawmakers return Wednesday morning.
Democrats have indicated they have dozens of proposed amendments to the budget that they plan to bring to the floor. Republicans are also expected to have their own amendments to the bill.
