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Contents

July 16, 2021

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I would like to thank all of you for taking the time to read through my newsletter. Each week, I'll include information to keep you up to date with what's happening in Madison and the 1st Assembly District.

State Budget Signed

Late last week, the governor signed into law the 2021-23 state budget that was written by the state Legislature.

Please click on this link to read my full statement.

Broadband Investment

One of the things we learned from the COVID-19 pandemic is that there are too many areas of our state that lack reliable broadband internet access.

That is why I am proud our state budget invests $125 million into improving these services for our state residents.

Earlier this year, the Legislature passed a bill that would have required the governor to spend $500 million in federal relief funds to ensure up to 96 percent of Wisconsinites have sufficient broadband coverage. Regrettably, the governor chose to veto that legislation.

Even though I am disappointed with the governor's decision, I still believe the $125 million we set aside, along with the $100 million that is available through the Broadband Expansion Grant program, will allow us to make meaningful progress toward addressing one of our state's most pressing priorities. 

For far too long, a large number of residents in our community have been without acceptable broadband access, and I am glad we were able to work together to set the stage for making these needed upgrades.  

New Eagle Tower

I recently had the pleasure of taking part in a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Eagle Tower at Peninsula State Park.

First and foremost, I would like to thank all the people who worked so hard to make the day possible. Without their dedication and unwavering support, there is no guarantee the new structure would be here for us to enjoy.

It is my hope that the new tower will boost local tourism by enticing more visitors to take in the beauty of Peninsula State Park’s majestic views.

For more on the history of the tower, please click here and here.