Assembly Republicans to hold first hearing on roads budget

MADISON — Assembly Republicans plan to hold their first public hearing on Gov. Scott Walker's transportation budget proposal next month.

Rep. Keith Ripp, chairman of the Assembly Transportation Committee, announced Wednesday that his panel will hold a hearing on Dec. 6.

The transportation budget faces a nearly $1 billion shortfall. Walker has refused to raise taxes to fill the deficit, proposing instead to delay projects and borrow money.

His stance has created a rare intraparty rift with Assembly Republican leaders. They say Walker's plan is an irresponsible political fix that will unnecessarily delay mega-projects in southeastern Wisconsin.

Speaker Robin Vos has said Assembly Republicans were developing an alternative plan and would hold public hearings.