April 24, 2013

Working for you!

Thank you for your input on the unemployment system reform survey!

Earlier this month, I asked to hear your thoughts on the unemployment system and potential reforms, and I'm happy to report that 60 people responded to this survey. I was especially pleased that so many of you wrote detailed comments to help me understand your point of view.

Your input is already being put to use as we continue working on this issue and implementing reforms that make the system more efficient, easier to use for businesses and claimants, and less susceptible to fraud.

More than 75% of you cited fraud, waste and abuse as your top unemployment concern, and the second highest concern (45%) was that unemployment pays out too long. 10 out of the 60 respondents have filed for unemployment at some point. Many employers expressed frustration that they must pay unemployment to people who then seek part time jobs or start their own businesses while receiving assistance, and that employers can't let the Department of Workforce Development know that employees were taking illegal drugs or sleeping on the job, for example.

Contesting unemployment assistance approval poses several problems for employers, including lack of funds to legally pursue such cases and statistics showing the historically low percentage of rulings in favor of employers. Some of you say unemployment caters to hourly workers, and others say they weren't given the type of help needed to match up their job prospects with their abilities and income levels.

You'll be seeing more surveys from me in the future, and I hope you'll consider participating. Again, thank you for taking the time to tell me your stories!

Monday, April 29: Listening Sessions in the 56th District

I am hosting community listening sessions as an informal way for you to let me know your thoughts and concerns about legislative issues, the state budget, and state government in general. I hope you can join me at one of my upcoming sessions, listed below.

Winneconne Town Hall

Monday, April 29   9:30am-10:30am

6494 County Road M, Winneconne

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Greenville Town Hall

Monday, April 29   11:30am-12:30pm

W6860 Parkview Dr, Greenville

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Grand Chute Town Hall

Monday, April 29    5pm-6pm

1900 Grand Chute Boulevard, Grand Chute

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Remember: You don't have to attend a listening session to be heard. You can contact me by replying to this email or by calling toll free in Wisconsin 1-888-534-0056. I look forward to hearing from you!

Pastor Lloyd Leo Luedeman Offers Assembly Prayer

I was honored to welcome the new pastor from my church, Zion Lutheran in Appleton, to the State Assembly to offer our benediction on April 17th. Pastor Lloyd, thank you for making the journey and helping us begin our work for the day.

 

NephCure Foundation Weekend in Wisconsin

This Saturday, April 27th, I'll be proudly participating in the Greenville opening ceremonies for NephCure Foundation Weekend in Wisconsin. I'm presenting a proclamation on behalf of Governor Walker, and I look forward to meeting the families and friends who want to make a difference in the lives of those with kidney disease. At 10am, we'll be at Greenville Lions Park off of Hwy 76 in Greenville. Feel free to join the festivities and help raise awareness and find cures for kidney diseases!

My Madison Office

I live in Greenville, but have an office at the State Capitol in Madison. If you are in downtown Madison, please feel free to stop by and say hello! Just go to the information desk in the rotunda, and they can direct you on how to find my office, 304 North. At the bottom of each e-news, you'll see my office contact information.

If your school is touring the Capitol building this spring, please let me know. I'd love to visit with you for a few minutes and take a group photo.

Remember, anyone can watch the Assembly in session (and many committee meetings, as well) through WisconsinEye.

Thank you for the opportunity to serve you.

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Rep.Murphy@legis.wisconsin.gov State Capitol Room 304 North - PO Box 8953, Madison, WI 53708 Toll Free: (888) 534-0056 or (608) 266-7500