My staff and I would like to wish you and your family a safe and happy Easter.
Boscobel Prison Tour
On Monday I toured the Boscobel prison with Rep. Oldenburg, Rep. Schraa, Rep. Tranel, and Secretary-Designee Carr. I believe criminal justice reform is an area where we can find common ground. A meaningful job following release has been shown to reduce recidivism. During our tour, we discussed ways to implement job training opportunities so when an individual is released from prison, they have the skills needed to enter the workforce. Thank you to the guards and employees who took the time to show us around.
Listening Session
My first listening session of the year will be held on Monday, April 29th at 1:00 PM at the Dodgeville City Hall. It is my priority to hear from you as the legislature works to craft Wisconsin's next budget. Please bring your budget ideas and priorities to share. I hope to see you there!
DIME Medical and WACVB
I visited Dr. Michael Robiolio, MD at DIME Medical in Darlington to learn more about innovative solutions to the increasing health care costs in Wisconsin. DIME offers direct primary care, meaning you pay a fixed monthly fee which includes unlimited access to primary care within the clinic. For most primary care providers, the monthly cost is similar to the average cell phone bill. With healthcare a top issue for the citizens of Wisconsin, I am encouraged to see innovative solutions that help to manage cost and increase access to services.
The Wisconsin Association of Convention and Visitors Bureaus (WACVB) stopped by to talk about their upcoming legislative priorities. WACVB supports destination marketing and partners with the Wisconsin Department of Tourism to promote tourism activity in our state. During their visit, we discussed an increase in state tourism marketing funding. They shared that each $1 spent on tourism marketing generates a $7 return to state and local governments. Thank you to Sue Donaldson, Christine Rebout, and Joe Klimczak for coming in!
This Week's Visit
I had a dual visit with the Wisconsin Corn Growers Association and Wisconsin Biofuels Association on Wednesday. Representing these groups were Mike Berget of Darlington and Eric Huschitt of Monroe. We discussed the benefits of higher ethanol blends and their positive effects on the agricultural economy and the environment. In addition, we talked about how my committee, the Speaker's Task Force on Water Quality, can impact water quality by working with farmers to improve soil health. Both groups work closely with each other and are instrumental in working towards a solution to Wisconsin's water quality challenges. Thanks for coming in!
| State Capitol - Room 310 North | PO Box 8953 | Madison, WI 53708 | (608) 266-7502 | Rep.Novak@Legis.WI.Gov |