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Benefit Reforms to Promote Healthy Eating
This week, I testified in favor of my bill that takes steps towards encouraging healthier, more nutritious options for Wisconsinites who participate in the FoodShare program. As we all know, incorporating balanced foods into every meal is key in leading a happy, healthy a life.
Under my bill, AB 530, the Department of Health Services will be tasked with creating a pilot program that limits purchases under the FoodShare program of foods that have little or no nutritional value. This essentially means that no food is prohibited; it simply requires that a portion of recipients’ food benefits be spent on wholesome, vitamin-rich foods, like lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables.
Wisconsin is following a national upward trend of unhealthy lifestyles. A recent report shows that 1 in every 3 adults in Wisconsin are considered obese, and children aged 10-17 are seeing similar numbers. My bill aims to encourage better nutritional choices for our most vulnerable Wisconsinites, leading to a decreased risk for illnesses, lessoned healthcare costs, and ultimately, a higher quality of life.
To learn more about my bill and how it sets a standard of responsible, healthy nutrition, click here.
Committee Work
Two committees on which I sit met this week. The Assembly Committee on Environment Forestry had an Executive Session earlier today, and the Assembly Committee on Housing and Real Estate held a Public Hearing on Tuesday, October 17th. As I listened to testimony for and took votes on bills making their way through our legislative system, I held close in mind the responsibility I have to the people of the 92nd Assembly District and Wisconsin as a whole to make informed decisions that will better our state.
Foster Care Hearing
Next week, the Foster Care Task Force will hold a hearing in Green Bay to hear from invited speakers and the general public on how best to address issues within Wisconsin’s foster care system. As we’ve traveled around the state, hearing testimony from countless experts and speakers, we have gathered eye-opening, invaluable information on how to affect change for foster children, foster parents, and the system in Wisconsin. I look forward to continuing to learn and introducing meaningful legislation this spring.
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