Rep. Robyn Vining Co-Authors Baby Bonds Bill to Improve Economic Security for Wisconsin Families

MADISON – Today, State Representative Robyn Vining (D-Wauwatosa), State Senator Melissa Agard (D-Madison), and State Representative Sondy Pope (D-Mount Horeb) introduced legislation to establish a Baby Bonds program in Wisconsin, as part of the Building Economic Security Together (B.E.S.T.) Agenda introduced by Sen. Agard. For babies born to Medicaid eligible families in Wisconsin, the state would invest in bonds worth $3,000 – access to these funds would be granted at 18, the money could be used to buy a home, pursue higher education, start a business, contribute toward retirement or investments, or pay for childcare. Rep. Vining issued the following statement regarding this legislation:

“We can help break the cycle of generational poverty and reduce the impacts of income inequality for the people of Wisconsin. Income inequality is increasing at an alarming rate in Wisconsin and in our nation, especially in communities of color.

“Wisconsinites deserve economic security, and that includes our kids. Baby bonds are an investment in the future of our state — so our kids can have access to the opportunities in this state, like buying a home, attending and graduating from one of our incredible higher education institutions, or starting a small business in the community they love and want to raise their families. Through these early investments, Wisconsin children will have economic stability to live their lives to their full potential.

“The children of Wisconsin deserve every opportunity to reach their full potential and achieve their dreams — without financial barriers. Investing in our kids is investing in the future of our economy and the future of our state. Forward together.”

Rep. Vining represents the 14th Assembly District, which includes parts of Brookfield, Wauwatosa, and Milwaukee. For more information, visit Rep. Vining’s website here. 

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. It has not been verified for its accuracy or completeness.