November 26, 2019

Working for you!

Giving Thanks for All Our Blessings

When our state founders established the Wisconsin Constitution, they began with the powerful phrase, “We, the people of Wisconsin, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom…” Thanksgiving is the perfect time to reflect on all that we are grateful for and to rededicate ourselves to living for others. Every day I am grateful for the ability to serve you as a public official. Happy Thanksgiving!

UW Research Bill Signed Into Law

On Thursday, the governor signed my bill to speed up the review of contracts with outside organizations involving research at University of Wisconsin System institutions.

The bipartisan bill was inspired by the late UW–Madison Professor Mark Cook, who advocated for this change to keep more spin-off research in Wisconsin. Prior Wisconsin law required a 45 day passive review period before a contract was approved. Research contracts will still be subject to approval by the Board of Regents, or designated administrators, and each institution is required to have a detailed management plan to prevent conflicts of interest in the approval of such contracts. Managing conflicts of interest is something best done on the ground by people who are familiar with the individuals involved and engaged in the work being done.

Current law generally prohibits state employees from participating in state contracts where they have a private financial interest and the ability to influence that contract. The law has a specific exemption for university employees when such contracts are between a UW System entity and a research company. This exemption allows UW faculty and research-focused employees who spin-off companies to engage in activity that benefits the interests of the public, the university, and the newly created business.

The 45 day passive review delay for contract approval was unique to Wisconsin. These delays don’t occur elsewhere and drive research opportunities out of the state. In 2015 alone, UW–Madison saw nearly $100 million less in private and non-profit research funding than other comparable universities around the country.

Anyone who has started a business understands just how important it is to act quickly, especially when patents are involved. Our bill improves Wisconsin’s ability to compete for private and non-profit research funding. I’m proud that this bill will address an out of date law and advance modern research entrepreneurship in Wisconsin.

National Bible Week

Franklin Delano Roosevelt originated National Bible Week in 1941. Since then, every President has declared a National Bible Week. This week of thanksgiving is an ideal time to read and reflect on one of the greatest works of literature in world history, which has influenced our nation since its founding. That’s why the legislature adopted a resolution declaring this week National Bible Week in Wisconsin.

Capitol Christmas Tree Arrives

The Capitol Christmas Tree arrived last week via truck and was lifted by crane into place just outside the building, where it will rest until it is brought inside and decorated after Thanksgiving Day. It’s always a pleasure to witness such an important symbol and work of nature being placed in our Capitol. You can watch a time-lapse video of the tree’s arrival by clicking on the image above.

During the holiday season, many displays are placed in the Capitol rotunda, including a Hanukkah Menorah, signs of protest, and yes, a Christmas tree. I’m a firm believer in calling things as I see them, which is why I voted for a resolution to restore the tree’s rightful name from the governor’s so called “holiday tree” to “Christmas tree.”

New Blue Books are Now Available

Wisconsin’s 2019-20 almanac of state government, the Blue Book, is now available. If you would like a copy, click on the image above and complete the online form.

Exchange Student Thanksgiving

On Saturday, there was a gathering of foreign exchange students at the Dale Town hall for a Thanksgiving dinner. My wife Lynn and I are hosting Mattia from Italy for the school year. Mattia is fourth from the right in the back row.

Travels with Dave

I recently had the chance to tour the new LKQ Appleton facility.

Last Wednesday I attended the ribbon cutting ceremony at the Community First Champion Center in Grand Chute. I'm pictured with Cathie Tierney, the CEO of the Community First Credit Union.

Upcoming Events

Check out upcoming events near us by visiting the Wisconsin Tourism website or https://appletondowntown.org/upcoming-events/ and if you run into me while you’re out and about be sure to stop and say hi!

"Like" Representative Murphy's Facebook Page

I use Facebook to update constituents more frequently on my work in Madison and the 56th Assembly District. I look forward to using this as another way to connect with constituents and encourage you to follow it and watch for regular updates.