By State Sen. Joan Ballweg

One of the most important responsibilities of the state legislature is to approve the biennial budget. The budget provides funding and support for critical infrastructure and programs in the state that range from meat processing grants to childcare supports.

This session, I have the honor of being a member of the Joint Committee on Finance (JFC). This committee is tasked with listening to the public, stakeholders and state agencies on what they would like to see included in the budget and voting on those individual provisions.

Several listening sessions are scheduled in April that provide an opportunity for the public to share their priorities.

Northern Wisconsin site is in Rhinelander on April 21 starting at 10 a.m. in the Hodag Dome.

On April 28, there will be a virtual session from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.

Details on logistics and how to pre-register for the virtual listening session will be posted on the JFC budget comments website, https://legis.wisconsin.gov/topics/budgetcomments.

In addition to these listening sessions, an email box has been set up for constituents to voice their thoughts on the budget if they cannot attend in person. The email address is Budget.Comments@legis.wisconsin.gov.

Please continue to watch my social media channels and subscribe to my e-newsletter for additional updates on the state budget process. I look forward to hearing everyone’s thoughts and feedback.