We're Just Getting Started

In less than a week, Gov. Walker will unveil his 2017-18 biennial budget and the Legislature will begin to review the two-year spending plan.

Before the task of wading through the budget begins, I want to share with you a few initiatives that I plan to address this session.

In 2013, Rep. John Nygren, laid out seven proposals that formed the basis for the H.O.P.E. Agenda- Heroin, Opioid Prevention and Education. Since 2013, the Assembly passed 17 bills that address this growing epidemic; all 17 bills have become law.

While we have made strides in this area, this epidemic still persists and is prevalent in our district. Earlier this month, the governor convened a special session of the Legislature to address this crisis. In his announcement he unveiled several proposals the Assembly will vote on in the coming months.

This session I plan to work with my colleagues to develop comprehensive legislation to make our communities safer and get these life-shattering drugs off the streets. I’m proud of our achievements through the HOPE Agenda but more must be done to stop this crisis.

Last session, I was given the opportunity to chair the Speaker’s Task Force on Urban Education. The bipartisan task force was designed to identify the unique challenges facing our urban school districts.

The group toured six of the largest urban school districts across the state and heard testimony from a variety of experts in education. At the conclusion of our tours we developed a report that included recommendations for improving education in the urban school environment.

One aspect of the final report focused on mental health in the urban school setting. Throughout the hearings we discovered many schools across the state lack the resources needed to provide proper mental health care for students in need. My colleagues and I will work to address this need in the months ahead.

Since first elected to the Assembly, education has been one of my top priorities. In the last budget we successfully secured more funding for K-12 education. The governor has promised additional funding for K-12 education in his 2017-18 budget. Whether it’s increasing funding or expanding educational options, ensuring our children have access to a high-quality education will remain a top priority for me.

These are only a couple of the initiatives I plan to address this legislative session. I will share more with you as the session progresses.

We have a busy legislative session ahead. I’m eager to continue working hard for our district!

Have a great week!

This week marked the start of a year-long dedication celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Wisconsin State Capitol.

The event included speeches by former Gov. Tommy Thompson and Gov. Walker in addition to unveiling an exhibit located in the Capitol rotunda detailing the last 100 years.

The historic state Capitol is truly a remarkable building known as one of the most beautiful throughout the country.

It was wonderful to be present for the kick-off celebration. Be sure to visit next time you’re in Madison! For up-to-date information on future centennial celebration events visit the Capitol Centennial website.