It’s been a busy time in the Capitol, as I've had several committee meetings: Colleges and Universities; Children and Families; and a Children's Caucus event took place in the last week. I also took a trip to Hayward, Wisconsin, with the Governor's Council on Tourism, to tour and learn about the economic impact of the American Birkebeiner. Next week, I will be attending a Government Accountability and Oversight committee meeting, as well as a Substance Abuse and Prevention hearing.
Governor Evers recently announced appointments for the Governor’s Task Force on Reducing Prescription Drug Prices. As I’ve previously shared, I introduced legislation earlier this session that would cap the price of insulin at $100 per 30 day supply. I strongly believe that no Wisconsinite should have to skip doses of life-saving medication due to unaffordable costs. I’m pleased that the Governor is looking at the broad spectrum of ways to address the rising costs of prescription drugs.
Please continue reading for articles on the special session Governor Evers called on addressing gun violence, tasks to complete as daylight savings occurs, information about Global Initiatives Week in La Crosse, and how to recognize Veterans Day locally.
As always, please let me know if you have any questions, comments or concerns. You can always contact my office by calling (608) 266-5780 or emailing me at Rep.Billings@legis.wi.gov.
Best Wishes,
Jill Billings State Representative 95th Assembly District
Special Session on Gun Violence
Last week, Governor Evers called for a legislative special session on November 7 to address gun violence. A special session allows for the Governor to require legislators to consider pending legislation on a specific topic. The two bills that the Governor is asking the legislature to take up would institute universal background checks (Assembly Bill 431) and Extreme Risk Protection Orders (Assembly Bill 573), which are both data-driven policies that have been proven to work in both blue and red states across the country.
These two proposals are supported by 80% of Wisconsinites. The people of Wisconsin want the legislature to take action on these bills. It’s time we put politics and partisanship aside and vote to what the majority of Wisconsin wants for their communities and families.
Daylight Savings and Safety Reminders
As Daylight Savings time approaches this Sunday, November 3, Wisconsin Emergency Management is urging Wisconsin residents to take the time to update safety features in the home. As you reset your clocks, consider also testing your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, as well as checking any supplies in emergency kits to ensure all food and medical supplies are unexpired.
Smoke detectors should be replaced every ten years, while carbon monoxide detectors should be replaced every five years. Now would also be a good time to get any fireplaces or wood burning stoves cleaned and serviced to ensure they vent properly.
Veterans Day in La Crosse
On Monday, November 11, we celebrate Veterans Day and honor the brave servicemen and women who fought for our country. This year, the inaugural Coulee Region Veterans Week runs from Saturday, November 9 to Saturday, November 16. Numerous free events will be held to honor local Veterans and unite as a community. To learn more about the events and get involved, click here.
Please join me in taking time to thank Veterans in our community for all the sacrifices they’ve made to keep us safe.
Celebrate Global Initiatives Week in the Coulee Region
From Friday, November 2 to Friday, November 9, the Coulee Region is holding its sixth annual Global Initiatives Week. The goal of Global Initiatives week is to celebrate the region’s global connections that are forged through commerce, tourism, education, volunteerism, delegations, and cultural diversity. Business and organizations throughout the Greater La Crosse region will be participating, and showcasing the economic and social impact of La Crosse’s global connections.
The week will be kicked off with a free celebration at North Woods International School, featuring international food samples from local restaurants and cultural music and dance performances. Throughout the week, various local restaurants and businesses will be offering discounts.
I hope that you’ll join me in celebrating the Coulee Region’s global connections. A complete calendar of events and more information about Global Initiatives Week can be found here.
Rep. Billings in La Crosse
This week I was able to spend time on University of Wisconsin-La Crosse’s campus, starting with a tour along with Representative Oldenburg, and ending with student office hours with Senator Shilling and conversation with the student Senate. I’m grateful to have such a strong university in our community and to be able to hear from highly engaged students. Thanks to Lisa Klein for organizing the tour.
I also enjoyed attending the Mayor's Annual Neighborhood Association meeting in La Crosse. Congratulations to Randy Magno, Spies Construction, and Habitat for Humanity for being recognized!
