Tackling Foster Care Issues

This week the Speaker unveiled his sixth task force: the Speaker’s Task Force on Foster Care. The bipartisan group, chaired by my colleague, Rep. Snyder (R-Wausau), will investigate foster care issues in Wisconsin.

In April, foster care advocates from around the state met at the Capitol to bring awareness to issues surrounding the foster care system in Wisconsin. The group noted there has been a sharp increase in the need for foster care, however, available foster homes have declined.

The bipartisan task force will focus on addressing issues facing the foster care system by looking at ways to better assist families and children once they’ve entered and aged out of the child welfare system. Additionally, the group will look at ways to reduce the need to enter foster care.

The task force will tour different parts of the state to learn more about the issues facing the foster care community. By next spring, we will present a report with policy recommendations aimed at improving foster care.

We know there is quite a bit of room for improvement within the foster care system in Wisconsin. I look forward to working with my colleagues to find ways to improve foster care for children in need of this important service.

Have a great weekend!

IKEA Groundbreaking

This week, we celebrated the groundbreaking for the first Wisconsin IKEA store located in Oak Creek. Our community continues to grow and attract more businesses providing jobs and boosting our local economy. I’m looking forward to the grand opening next summer!

Fourth of July Events in the 21st Assembly District

Don’t miss the annual Fourth of July parade in Oak Creek! The parade will start at 9 am on E. Groveland Dr. To find a great spot, check out the parade map. And be sure to say hello when you see me!

Not to be outdone, there will be plenty of events throughout the day at Grant Park in South Milwaukee starting at 10 am. Events include a costume parade and races for kids followed by a picnic with the Mayor and more activates to follow.

The evening will end with a spectacular fireworks show. For more information visit the South Milwaukee website.