This week, I attended a bi-partisan bill signing for Senate Bill 310 which regulates the use of firefighting foam that contains PFAS chemicals. The bill prevents using or training with firefighting foams that contain intentionally-added PFAS. The prohibition does not apply in emergency operations. PFAS is a serious issue that both sides of the aisle have come together to combat. I appreciate the Governor signing this bill into law and look forward to seeing additional progress in the future.
Governor Evers signs SB 310 into law. (From left to right) Representative Melissa Sargent, Senator Jerry Petrowski, Representative John Nygren and Representative Rob Swearingen.
Assembly Committee on Forestry, Parks and Outdoor Recreation
The Assembly Committee on Forestry, Parks and Outdoor Recreation met for a Public Hearing this week on Assembly Bill 856 and a DNR agency rule.
Clearinghouse Rule 19-094: Relating to processes for waterbody assessments and impaired waters listing, biological criteria for water quality standards, and biological confirmation of phosphorus impairments.
I appreciate everyone who attended the hearing and offered their testimony, including members of the public and representatives of the DNR.
The Assembly Committee on Forestry, Parks and Outdoor Recreation
Assembly Committee on Tourism
The Assembly Committee on Tourism held a Public Hearing on Assembly Bill 787. The bill relates to a loan for the Greater Green Bay Convention and Visitor Bureau for the construction of a visitor information and education center. The decision to hold a vote on the bill now lies with the Chairman of the committee.
The Assembly Committee on Tourism
Meeting with Attorney General Josh Kaul
I met with Attorney General Josh Kaul this week to discuss a variety of legislative initiatives.In particular, wediscussed the state's efforts to combat the opioid epidemic. The legislature's Heroin, Opioid Prevention and Education Agenda(HOPE) has to date passed 30 bi-partisan bills that aim to prevent drug use, educate the public and helpindividualswho are suffering from addiction. While there is more work to do, I am proud of the steps Wisconsin has taken to address this serious nation-wide issue.
Attorney General Josh Kaul and Representative Swearingen
University of Wisconsin - Green Bay Chancellor Meeting
I had the chance to meet with Sheryl Van Gruensven, the Interim Chancellor of the University of Wisconsin – Green Bay, to discuss new initiatives to prepare students for success in the workforce of tomorrow. One such initiative is a new program that would allow high school students to earn an Associate’s Degree by the time they graduate high school. We also spoke about future University building and maintenance projects that will need to be approved by the state’s official building commission, of which I am a member. The University of Wisconsin System does a great job throughout the state, and I appreciated the candid conversation with Chancellor Van Gruensven.
Rep. Swearingen with UW-Green Bay Chancellor Sheryl Van Gruensven
Northwood's Association of Realtors Legislative Day
This week, I had a joint meeting with Representative Jeff Mursau, Representative Mary Felzkowski and members of the Northwood’s Association of Realtors during their legislative day in the Capitol. We had a good conversation regarding their legislative initiatives, and I appreciate the work they do throughout the Northwoods.
Rep. Swearingen, Rep. Mursau and Rep. Felzkowski meeting with Northwood's Realtors Adam Redman of Minocqua and Heidi Reiter-Kramsvogel of Eagle River.
Assembly Committee on Rules
I had the opportunity to fill in as a member on the Assembly Committee on Rules this week. The bi-partisan committee is tasked with voting on procedural matters of the Assembly, such as future debate times for floor sessions. It is always a unique opportunity to be a part of this important process.
The Assembly Committee on Rules meeting in the Assembly Parlor.
2020 Labatt Blue/USA Hockey, Pond Hockey National Championships
The 2020 Labatt Blue/USA Hockey Pond Hockey National Championships are set to take place this weekend in Eagle River. Best of luck to all the participating teams! To learn more about this great event, please click here.
Travel Wisconsin Snow Report
To keep up to date with the snow conditions and trail openings around the state for snowmobiling, skiing and snowboarding, check out Travel Wisconsin's Snow Report.
Community Events
Please click the following links for upcoming community events!
