This week I met with Department of Revenue Secretary Peter Barca to discuss a variety of state issues and how the DOR can be more efficient in its regulatory responsibilities. I appreciate the Secretary’s willingness to meet with members of the legislature and look forward to seeing progress on issues that affect businesses and taxpayers across the state.
Rep. Swearingen with DOR Secretary Peter Barca
Bill to Expand Access to Contraception Advances
Assembly Bill 304, related to permitting pharmacists to prescribe certain contraceptives, passed the Assembly last month. Under current law, hormonal contraceptive patches and oral hormonal contraceptives, such as common birth control pills, are only available through a prescription from a physician or an advanced practice nurse who has met certain qualifications. The bill authored by State Representative Joel Kitchens (R-Sturgeon Bay) will now allow pharmacists to prescribe contraceptive patches and pills, greatly expanding access to birth control for women across Wisconsin. I am proud to have supported this bill on the Assembly floor, and am hopeful that the bill will now pass the Senate and be signed into law by the Governor.
To watch Rep. Kitchens’ floor speech regarding the bill, please click the picture below:
Meeting with Department of Transportation and the Association of Wisconsin Snowmobile Clubs
I had the opportunity to meet with Department of Transportation officials and members of the Association of Wisconsin Snowmobile Clubs to discuss issues related to snowmobiling in Wisconsin. The DOT provided a great presentation pertaining to issues surrounding the operation of snowmobiles near roadways. I appreciated the candid conversation and am hopeful that effective legislation will follow as a result.
Rep. Swearingen, DOT officials and representatives of AWSC during the round-table meeting. Great to hear from all involved!
Meeting with Wisconsin Historical Society
I met with Kate Easton, a representative of the Wisconsin Historical Society, to discuss the Society’s preservation efforts throughout the state. Wisconsin has a strong cultural heritage and the Historical Society does a fantastic job in preserving and sharing our state’s history to the public. Thanks again for stopping by!
Rep. Swearingen with WI Historical Society Representative Kate Easton.
Vilas County Economic Development Corporation Annual Meeting
Today, I had the opportunity to attend the Vilas County Economic Development Corporation (VCEDC) annual meeting in Lac du Flambeau. The event brings together business and civic leaders from across the Northwoods to reflect on the accomplishments of the previous year and discuss pro-growth initiatives for the future. Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and I always enjoy speaking with folks who are so passionate about what they do. Wisconsin continues to experience unprecedented record low unemployment rates, and I will continue to do everything I can to ensure that businesses can start, grow and thrive in Wisconsin.
I would also like to thank and recognize VCEDC Executive Director Bob Egan, who will soon be retiring from the position, for his years of service to the community. Luckily, Bob's expertise and leadership will still be a great asset to the community as he will be joining the VCEDC Board of Directors. I wish Bob all the best in his new role.
Rep. Swearingen with VCEDC Executive Director Bob Egan and Lake of the Torches CEO Bill Guelcher.
Bob Egan being recognized by VCEDC Board Chairman Jim Tuckwell.
Chief Operating Officer of the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation, Sam Rikkers.
Community Events
Please click the following links for upcoming community events!