Thank you for taking the time to read this week's e-update. I always strive to include information you find interesting and informative as it relates to my work in Madison and the 60th Assembly District.
My most important goal remains serving you, my constituents. Helping you find solutions to difficult problems when it seems like the state is unresponsive is the single greatest reward for my staff and me. I take constituents' input seriously and continually work hard on your behalf.
I always have your thoughts and concerns in mind when deciding whether or not to support legislation. Furthermore, I appreciate when you take time out of your schedules to contact me.
Have a great week,
My Capitol office is Open
As we navigate through COVID-19, I wanted you to know that my office remains open and ready to assist you with your state government needs.
Some of my staff will be working from home to mitigate the risks of the virus, but someone will still be in office every day.
Please contact my office via phone: 608-267-2369, or email: Rep.Rob.Brooks@legis.wisconsin.gov
This week's survey
Last week, Governor Evers declared a public health emergency due to COVID-19. In his emergency declaration, Evers said, " This declaration allows us to access state resources to deal with this pandemic head-on, care for those who need assistance, and limit the spread of the virus. I want to assure everyone that those affected are receiving the best possible care and that all steps are being taken to stop the spread of this virus."
Governor Evers' declaration directed the Wisconsin Department of Health Services to "use all resources necessary to respond and contain the outbreak."This allowed DHS to purchase, store or distribute medications, regardless of whether it is covered by insurance. The order also authorizes state funds to support local health departments with costs associated with isolation and quarantine and allow the National Guard to aid in the effort.
Governor Evers, this week, announced some changes that will affect our schools and students, bars and restaurants, and more. All restaurants and bars have been ordered to close, with the exception of delivery or carry out. Or consider purchasing a gift card to be used at a future date. Please consider supporting local businesses during these difficult times.
Additionally, Governor Evers has directed DHS to instruct school districts, both public and private schools, to cease face-to-face interaction. The governor has also banned meetings/gatherings of more than 10 individuals. The following are some of the place excluded from this rule:
Transportation such as airports and mass transit
Childcare facilities
Government, such as law enforcement, national guards, and state and local governments
Schools will remain closed indefinitely. Previously, a deadline of April 6th was given. The governor stated that he was unsure as to whether or not April 6th would be a realistic timeline for a safe return to school. Please click here to read Governor Evers' K-12 School Closure FAQ.
As more information becomes available, my office will keep you abreast.
Please, take a minute to answer this week's survey question regarding the state's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Local county health departments are working closely with state agencies. If you have questions or concerns relating to COVID-19, I would encourage you to view the materials on the Washington-Ozaukee Public Health Department's website or contact the health department directly.
State COVID-19 Resources
For Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development information, please click here.
For Wisconsin-specific information, visit the Wisconsin Department of Health Services' website.
State agencies continually issue new guidance and resources to help Wisconsinites stay healthy and make informed choices for their families. New information on COVID-19 will continue to be published online.
Survey Results
Thank you to everyone who answered this week's survey regarding Governor Tony Evers' veto of Senate Bill 43 relating to paddlewheel raffles. I appreciated your input on this issue, as Governor Evers' decision impacts a number of charitable and non-profit organizations in the 60th Assembly District.
In total, 89 individuals answered this week's survey question, with 88 percent opposing Governor Evers' veto. Just 9 percent of respondents believed his veto was warranted.
What is more, 3 percent of respondents answered "other." Responses include:
"I think we have more important things to do in Madison and the State of Wisconsin."
"No, maybe Tony would rather have more people dependent upon government than on charitable organizations. As such, he wants to limit their ability to raise money."
"I do support raffles, but understand that some regulation is needed to prevent abuse."
COVID-19 Update
The World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a global pandemic. As such, everyone must do his or her part to engage in the recommended social distancing. The goal is to prevent our healthcare providers from becoming overwhelmed by new cases. While the response to COVID-19 is unprecedented, I am confident that our healthcare providers possess the skillset to offer proper care to those infected. Together, we will defeat this virus.
The CDC says the best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to the virus, which is spread from person-to-person. To protect yourself and others, here are some tips to follow:
Clean your hands often
Avoid close contact
Stay home, if you are ill
Cover coughs and sneezes
Wear a face mask, if you are ill
Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces
The key in a situation such as this is how fast the virus spreads. Although the health risk is very low to most of the population, it is imperative that we slow the spread of the virus, thereby reducing the strain on our health system. Epidemiologists call this strategy of preventing a huge spike in cases "flattening the curve." One strategy is "social distancing," which is aimed at slowing the spread. The graph below illustrates how we can reduce the strain on our nation's healthcare system.
Washing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is an effective way to destroy and dislodge many microbes, including the new coronavirus. It is important to note that this is true with any soap, not just antibacterial. Washing with soap is even more effective than using hand sanitizer alone. Please note the following New York Times graphic.
State Highway 60 Rehabilitation Meeting
The Wisconsin Department of Transportation has canceled a public involvement meeting to discuss the upcoming construction activity along State Highway 60 from Eagle Drive to Wisconsin 181 in Ozaukee and Washington Counties.
The meeting was originally scheduled for Thursday, March 19, from 5:00-7:00 p.m., at the Cedarburg Town Hall, 1293 Washington Avenue. This cancellation is precautionary against the continued spread of COVID-19 based on public health guidance to limit public gatherings for the time being.
Miller Park Sales Tax Expiration
The time has finally come. The Miller Park Tax will officially end March 31st. The 0.1 percent sales tax has been in place since 1996 in the five counties surrounding the baseball stadium, to assist in paying for its construction. On Tuesday, the Southeast Wisconsin Professional Baseball Park District took the final step by unanimously voting to certify the completion of the tax.
You may remember, the legislature stepped up to the plate this session and approved Assembly Bill 73 to end the tax. The bill that was signed into law last November provides for the return of excess sales taxes reported to the state following the termination date of the tax. The funds will be distributed to the participating counties based on population. These counties can use the refunded dollars only for property tax relief, public safety, parks and recreation, or economic development.
Blue Books
My office still has an abundance of 2019-2021 State of Wisconsin Blue Books. If you are interested in obtaining a copy, please click the following link. My staff and I will make it a priority to ensure that your copy arrives in a timely fashion.
Events
The following are events that will be held this week in the 60th Assembly District. If you have any upcoming events you would like included, please contact my office.
One of the best ways to date with what is happening in Madison is to sign up for the legislature's notification tracking system. This service affords you with the opportunity to track legislative activities in Madison. Upon creation of a free account, you can sign up to receive notification about specific bills of committees as well as legislative activity pertaining to a subject (i.e., health care, education, etc.).
If you have any comments regarding the subject of this E-Update, please feel free to contact me.
Rep. Rob Brooks State Capitol, Room 216 North P.O. Box 8952 Madison, WI 53708 Toll-Free (888) 534-0060 or (608) 267-2369 Rep.Rob.Brooks@legis.wi.gov| |
Additionally, Governor Evers has directed DHS to instruct school districts, both public and private schools, to cease face-to-face interaction. The governor has also banned meetings/gatherings of more than 10 individuals. The following are some of the place excluded from this rule:
