Governor Evers signed the 2019-2021 biennial state budget into law last week, but not before using his powerful line-item veto pen 78 times. Thanks to the input of Wisconsinites and a Republican legislature, this is a good budget that Wisconsin can responsibly afford. I am, however, disappointed that the Governor used his veto authority to make it easier for able-bodied adults to stay on welfare, reduce funding for local road repairs, and prioritize Madison and Milwaukee over the rest of the state.
At a time when Wisconsin is enjoying historic low unemployment, I do not believe we should be incentivizing individuals to stay on welfare programs. The Governor vetoed FoodShare Drug Screening requirements for able-bodied adults without dependents, and also removed funding allocated to help welfare recipients get the education and training needed to get off of government dependence.
Additionally, after hearing from constituents across the state, the legislature allocated $90 million for local road projects. The Governor’s veto cuts that amount by $15 million and allows the Department of Transportation to utilize the funds as they wish instead of directing it to local roads as intended.
The Governor also vetoed several provisions in the budget that would have specifically helped Northern Wisconsin. I am extremely disappointed that Governor Evers vetoed a budget motion authored by myself and Senator Tiffany that would have allocated $250,000 to Lakeland Star Academy, a school in Minocqua that helps children with autism. Governor Evers also vetoed the building of a Northwoods regional mental health crisis facility and eliminated funding for the FAB Lab grant program that helps K-12 students develop real-world STEM skills.
Despite the Governor’s short-sighted vetoes, I am proud of the legislature’s work to eliminate the $1 billion tax hike and $6 billion spending increase that he originally proposed. Our Wisconsin budget responsibly invests in the state’s priorities, reduces the tax burden on the middle class, and continues to move Wisconsin forward in the right direction.
Broadband Expansion Grant Program Receives Historic Boost
The recently signed 2019-2021 biennial state budget allocates a historic $44 million in federal funding plus an additional $2.2 million in state funding to the successful broadband expansion grant program. Since its inception, the program has helped connect 20,000 homes and 600 businesses in mostly rural areas to high-speed reliable broadband. I am proud of the fact that my district has received the most broadband expansion grants in the state and look forward to continued progress throughout the Northwoods.
Assembly Committee on State Affairs Public Hearing
The Assembly Committee on State Affairs, which I chair, held a public hearing this week to hear testimony on several bills. I was particularly happy to see support for Assembly Bill 37 related to paddlewheel raffles. I have heard from several local organizations, such as lake associations and volunteer fire departments, who have requested clarification on the legality of conducting paddlewheel raffles to raise funds. Assembly Bill 37 allows organizations with a Class B raffle license to legally conduct paddlewheel raffles. Thank you to everyone who came down to Madison to testify on these bills.
Rep. Swearingen chairing the State Affairs Committee meeting.
Oneida County Tourism Council Launches New Brand
I had the opportunity to join the Oneida County Tourism Council this Thursday in Minocqua to help launch their new brand, "One Northwoods". The initiative has been a long-time joint effort between the Department of Tourism and the Oneida County Tourism Council. Tourism plays a vital role throughout the Northwood’s and continues to be one of our primary drivers of economic development. I was happy to be joined by Department of Tourism Secretary Designee Sara Meaney, members of the Oneida County Tourism Council, and area business owners for the launch. It was a great event, and I look forward to continued growth in the tourism industry statewide. To check out the new Oneida County Tourism website, please visit onenorthwoods.com
Department of Tourism Secretary Designee Sara Meaney highlighted the importance of the tourism industry throughout Wisconsin.
Krystal Westfahl, Oneida County Tourism Council President and the Minocqua Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, gave an overview of the impact tourism has in Oneida County.
Hodag Country Fest
The annual Hodag Country Fest is underway! The festival will take place from July 11th-14th in Rhinelander. For more information, please click here!
4th of July Parades
Several great 4thof July parades took place in communities around the Northwoods last week. Here are a few pictures of the festivities from around the district:
Always a fun opportunity to partake in the parades.
Great crowd for the Rhinelander parade.
Despite the heat, the RHS Marching Band did a fantastic job as usual!
Congratulations to Don Sidlowski for being named as Grand Marshal of the Three Lakes Parade.
Community Events
Please click the following links for upcoming community events!
