ASSEMBLY WAYS AND MEANS

AB 156 was passed by the Ways and Means Committee this week; the bill would establish a WI Workforce Housing Tax Credit.

Too often when individuals hear "workforce housing" they immediately think "low-income housing." They are not the same! Workforce housing is affordable, entry level homes for first-time homebuyers and individuals starting in their respective career fields who are looking to be homeowners and renters.

ASSEMBLY CHILDREN AND FAMILIES

Rep. Dittrich was happy to have her Foster Parents Bill of Rights (AB 412) heard in the Assembly Committee on Children and Families, of which she is also a member. She understands the need to have more good people serving as foster parents, but recognizes it will not improve until Wisconsin treats them with better dignity and consideration.

SENATE COMMITTEES

In addition to the Assembly committee hearings and votes, Rep. Dittrich also shared testimony with 4 different Senate Committees on bills she has written this session on various topics, including saving life, protecting children, and ensuring parental rights remain in place.

Senate Committee on Health* both public testimony and vote

• SB 592/AB 594 (Providing Congenital Education Resources)
• SB 593/AB 595 (Shield the Vulnerable Act)

Senate Committee on Government Operations, Legal Review and Consumer Protection

• SB 503/AB 493 (Disqualifying Planned Parenthood from receiving State Medicaid Funding)

Senate Committee on Human Services, Children and Families

• SB 402/AB 412 (Foster Parents Bill of Rights)
• SB 601 (Addressing Abandoned Appeals in Adoption Cases)

Senate Committee on Education

• SB 587/AB 600 (Allowing Parents to Transfer Children to a Different School District Based on Mask/COVID-19 Vaccination Policies)

Rep. Dittrich was honored to testify in front of the Senate Committee on Education with Senator John Jagler on their bill, SB 587. This legislation would give parents the option to open enroll their student should a school district change their mask or COVID-19 vaccination policies during the school year. Parents need options when the changing school district policy does not meet their child's needs, whether that is requiring or not requiring these specific measures.

Rep. Dittrich is hopeful the Assembly Committee on Mental Health will schedule a public hearing soon on AB 600. Parents are encouraged to come to Madison to share their thoughts and experiences on how this bill would benefit their families/children with the committee.

RARE DISEASE ADVISORY COUNCIL

Rep. Dittrich has been working tirelessly since May 4, 2021 in a meeting with the National Organization for Rare Disorders, Inc. (NORD), but this week marked a huge accomplishment for thousands in our state. This week, Senator John Jagler and Rep. Dittrich introduced their "RDAC" bill, which will empower patients facing rare diagnoses and their families by forming a Wisconsin Rare Disease Advisory Council. This will enable our state to shape legislation specifically targeted to Wisconsinites most in need of sound policy regarding rare disorders, right to try, and orphan drugs.

BENEFIT TO WI TAXPAYERS

Rep. Dittrich was much relieved to hear that the Department of Revenue has decided update individual income tax withholding tables by January 1, 2022. The intention of the bill the Republican Legislature passed was to give taxpayers relief retroactive to January 1, 2021 but the governor vetoed a provision directing the DOR to update the withholding tables to reflect the change. At a time where taxpayers are still reeling from COVID-19 shutdowns and sudden inflation, Wisconsin government does NOT need to be giving itself an interest-free loan until 2023 with your money.

Wisconsin Taxpayers To Benefit From Tax Withholding Change

MANUFACTURING MONTH

October is Manufacturing Month!

Did you know that manufacturing remains Wisconsin's top industry? Constituents who consistently follow Rep. Dittrich know her passion for keeping Wisconsin working and for directly students to careers that don't require a 4-year degree. This month, we celebrate manufacturing's rewarding career opportunities and work to strengthen the talent pipeline for these valuable jobs.

CONSTRUCTION UPDATE

As you head out to enjoy all the lovely fall events and festivals our state has to offer, make sure you plan your route ahead of time! We have several projects on the I-94 corridor to keep in mind as well as various projects around the state.

• Lake Mills to east of Johnson Creek, Jefferson County - resurfacing and bridge rehabilitation
• Lake Mills area County A and Airport Road over I-94, Jefferson County - bridge rehabilitation

Speed limits were already reduced just west of Oconomowoc on I-94. For updates, check WI 511. As always, slow down and move over for construction workers!

CONSTITUENT CORNER

Rep. Dittrich was pleasantly surprised to run into Lake Country Classical Academy Board President and Founder, Kristina Vourax when she spoke in front of the Senate Committee on Education. So many families in the 38th Assembly District are grateful to be a part of this new area charter school.