Albers Supports Proposed Wisconsin Bill

Republican State Senator John Albers, of Roswell, and several of his colleagues have entered a resolution in support of Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker and that state's majority members' proposed bill to balance their budget.

The controversial Wisconsin bill - which would require most public sector employees to contribute more to their benefits and give up most of their collective bargaining rights - is currently working its way through the Wisconsin Assembly, much to the dismay of state union leaders. Walker, a Republican, has said the bill is crucial in solving the state's $137 million deficit. Democratic lawmakers are vehemently opposed to the bill and even staged a filibuster Tuesday, Feb. 22.

The proposed Georgia State Senate resolution acknowledges the complexity of the situation, but ultimately supports the proposed bill. 

"It is incumbent upon all elected officials to report to work and make the difficult decisions for which they were elected to make," the resolution states.

Albers support of the Wisconsin bill comes as a result of his own constituents questions about how he would handle the situation.

"It is our contention that here in Georgia we would support those elected and have similar positions, as well as [support] their fiscal duty to make sure they have to do whatever is possible and reasonable for their citizens," he said during a recent press conference.

The resolution is expected to go through the Rules Committee and then pass through the Senate.