Statement: Federal Grant Moves up Completion of I-94 N-S
"The economic growth in this region is about to explode and we must have a safe and reliable roadway. I applaud Governor Walker for fighting for this federal assistance and moving up the completion date by eleven years."
Child Sales Tax Rebate Filing Period Opens
“I want to make sure parents in Racine County know that they have file a claim to get a $100 dollar rebate for each child under 18. This is yet another example of how the good economy and our sound fiscal management are benefiting families across our state.”
Statement: Rep. Joel Kleefisch Announcing Retirement
"Wisconsin is losing one of its most effective and passionate legislators. His dedication to his constituents and bipartisanship should serve as a model for everyone in the legislature."
Statement: Speaker Paul Ryan Retirement from Congress
"I am happy for my friend and his family, but sad for the 1st Congressional District and our country because men like him don't come around often."
Statement: Welfare Reform Package Becomes Law
“I want to thank Governor Walker for helping lead this historic effort. I look forward to seeing the full implementation of these groundbreaking reforms.”
Statement: Retirement Announcement of Rep. Thomas Weatherston
“I would like to thank my friend and colleague for his service to the Wisconsin State Assembly. It has been a privilege working with him and advancing our shared priorities for Racine County and the state."
Statement: Signing of School Safety Bills
"Nothing is more important than the safety of our children. Our schools now have additional resources available to further protect our students, so that no child has to learn in fear. We want to thank Governor Walker for bringing this package to the legislature.”
Statement: Retirement of Rep. Lee Nerison
“I would like to thank Lee for his service to the Assembly and the state of Wisconsin. He’s been a strong voice for agriculture throughout his years in office."
Statement: Special Session Call
“I’m pleased that Governor Walker called a special session and appreciate that he and his staff worked with legislative leaders to bring forward a comprehensive package on school safety."
Speaker Vos leads State Assembly Delegation to a Trade Summit
Speaker Robin Vos (R-Rochester) is leading a bipartisan delegation of state Assembly lawmakers to the inaugural International Trade Legislative Conference in Québec City this weekend.
Statement: Special Session on School Safety
“With the Assembly’s regular session work being complete, I welcome a call from Governor Walker to convene a Special Session of the Legislature on school safety. We want every Wisconsin parent to feel confident that their child is safe at school."
Statement: 2017-18 Legislative Session
“Our list of accomplishments this session is long. From the welfare reform that will be a model for our country to the bipartisan juvenile corrections overhaul, we’re working hard to build our workforce and find solutions to issues facing our state."
Statement: Legislation to Help Make Racine County Safer
“In the final days of the legislative session, I couldn’t be more proud of the bipartisan work that we’re doing to make Wisconsin neighborhoods safer. We’re being tough on repeat, violent offenders while reforming the juvenile corrections system to hopefully reduce crime and create better outcomes."
Assembly Awards Mount Pleasant Couple with Hometown Hero Award
Speaker Robin Vos (R-Rochester) and the Wisconsin State Assembly honored Dan and Robyn Fedrigon of Mount Pleasant with the Hometown Hero Award. The Assembly’s highest citizen recognition award was given to the couple for their work as foster parents.
Speaker Vos Testifies on Welfare Reform Package
“This legislative package promotes accountability, encourages personal responsibility, prevents fraud and abuse, and gets people back to work."
Statement: State of the State Address
"The state of the state is undeniably great. We have a strong economy, a growing budget surplus, excellent schools and one of the best health care systems in the country. We have a great story to tell and I’m glad that Governor Walker took the time to share it during this speech."
Speaker Vos, Sen. Wanggaard Deliver Citations to Worthy Recipients
State legislators honor Mayor Hefty, Love, Inc. for their work following 2017 floods.
Statement: Governor Walker's Juvenile Corrections Plan
"It’s essential that we find a workable solution that will bring about better outcomes for juveniles offenders, their families and their communities."
Capitol Restoration Fund to Receive $78,500 from Fundraiser
In the 100th year of the Capitol, the funds raised will go toward keeping it beautiful for another century.
Statement: Future of NAFTA
“NAFTA has worked for Wisconsin."
Statement: Speculation of Speaker Ryan’s Retirement
"I’m confident his real plans are to remain in Congress as Speaker for many years to come."
Statement: DOJ’s John Doe Report
“This report confirms what Republicans have known to be true for years. The Government Accountability Board staff acted as though they were above the law. We have a mountain of evidence that clearly shows an abuse of power for partisan purposes."
Statement: Foster Forward Legislative Package
"The Foster Forward initiatives are a positive step forward in addressing the issues within the foster care system. These children, at no fault of their own, face challenging circumstances. We want them to have every opportunity to succeed in life and become productive citizens."
New Study Shows Bipartisan Session Agreements Make a Positive Impact
Assembly Speaker Robin Vos (R-Rochester) is pleased with a new study recently published in the Journal of the American Society of Legislative Clerks and Secretaries that shows that bipartisan agreements on Assembly operations have made a positive impact on the institution and democracy as a whole.
Speaker Vos Announces Restructuring of Committee on Ways and Means
“Wisconsin taxpayers and businesses have suffered for far too long under an overly burdensome tax code that doesn’t work for families, retirees and job creators. This restructured committee will tackle real reform in a transparent process that will give the public ample input in developing a new tax code that is fair and simple with lower rates.”
Statement: Alzheimer’s and Dementia Legislative Package
"With a growing number of people dealing with forms of dementia, we must continue to explore legislative actions that can make a difference.”
Statement: Assembly Bill 499, The Mining Bill
"The mining reform bill creates a balance between new economic opportunities in an industry that our neighboring states allow and the protection of the natural resources in our state."
Statement on Passing of Rep. Bob Gannon
Rep. Vos made the following statement regarding the passing of former Rep. Bob Gannon (R-West Bend) who died unexpectedly of natural causes.
Statement: Foxconn Location Announcement
“I’m excited that Wisconn Valley is centered in the county that I’m proud to call home. The Foxconn project is a game changer for Wisconsin with a $10 billion investment and tens of thousands of careers."
Speaker Vos Appoints Commission Member
Speaker Robin Vos (R-Rochester) is appointing Dean Knudson of Hudson to the Wisconsin Elections Commission.
Statement: Foxconn Bill Signed into Law
“Today Wisconsin is officially saying yes to a $10 billion development project, 13,000 careers and new opportunities throughout Wisconsin. This law allows the state to move forward on the largest economic development project in state history."
Statement: Assembly Passage of 2017-2019 Budget
“The Assembly has concluded its work on the state budget, which delivers on our promise to Wisconsin taxpayers."
Statement: Secretary Stepp EPA Appointment
“I want to congratulate my friend and former state Senator Cathy Stepp on her appointment. Her strong work ethic, business sense and enthusiasm will be a benefit to the EPA in her new position."
Statement: Assembly Passage of Special Session Assembly Bill 1
“The Assembly took a major step today to ensure the prosperity of generations of Wisconsinites. And I’m very happy that we passed this bill with bipartisan votes; more Democrats voted for the bill than Republicans voted against. We agree that Wisconsin should move forward on the largest economic development project in state history that will bring thousands of careers, new businesses and opportunities to the Badger State."
Statement: Amendment to Special Session Bill
“To my Republican and Democratic colleagues, I urge you to join us as we work together to move Wisconsin forward. Together we can build a stronger economy and improve the quality of life throughout the state for generations to come.”
Speaker Vos Elected NCSL Vice President
“It’s with great pride that I accept the nomination and responsibilities of this position,” said Speaker Vos. “I’m eager to serve in a larger role for NCSL and help lead the discussion of the important issues facing states today.”
Speaker Vos Announces Assembly Timeline on Foxconn Bill
“We welcome the opportunity to take up legislation that will pave the way for one of the largest manufacturing campuses in the world,” said Speaker Vos.
Speaker Vos Statement on Foxconn Announcement
Speaker Robin Vos (R-Rochester) released the following statement in regards to the Foxconn decision to build its first U.S. manufacturing plant in Wisconsin. Speaker Vos joined President Donald Trump, Speaker Paul Ryan, Governor Scott Walker and company officials for the announcement at the White House.
Speaker Vos Statement on DOT Reform Bill
“I support many of the reforms and would like to see them included in a comprehensive package to address the transportation needs of our state. I agree with the bill’s authors that a full repeal of prevailing wage is an essential component of a DOT reform package."
Speaker Vos Creates Task Force on Foster Care
Speaker Robin Vos (R-Rochester) is announcing the formation of the Task Force on Foster Care. The bipartisan group of legislators is tasked with developing ideas to improve the child welfare system that provides out-of-home care for more than seven thousand children in Wisconsin.
Tommy G. Thompson Day Resolution Passes Assembly
The Wisconsin State Assembly will now officially recognize November 19 as Tommy G. Thompson Day, the birthday of Wisconsin’s longest serving governor. State representatives approved the Assembly Joint Resolution 61 that honors the Assembly alumnus who dedicated his life to public service.
Speaker Vos to Participate in White House Infrastructure Summit
“It’s an honor to have been invited to this important discussion on the nation’s infrastructure and to represent Wisconsin’s interests in that discussion."
Speaker Vos Announces Creation of Tommy G. Thompson Center on Public Leadership
"On our college campuses, we need to hear more than just one side of the debate; we need to ensure every voice is heard. This center will promote an even more rigorous debate of the current issues and hopefully, bipartisan solutions."
Speaker Vos Announces Free Speech on Campus Act
Speaker Robin Vos (R-Rochester) unveiled new legislation to protect free speech at UW System schools. The bill fulfills the Assembly Republican promise to protect the First Amendment on college campuses, encouraging the debate of ideas and promoting diversity of thought.
Statement on Transportation Priorities
New projects shouldn’t begin in one region at the expense of the rest of southeast Wisconsin and the delays on the I-94 N-S in Racine County have continued for far too long. We will not move forward on the East-West project unless the North-South is on track. Our state can’t afford to ignore a major section of our interstate system.
Speaker Vos Announces State of the Tribes Address
“This is an Assembly tradition that promotes better communications between the tribal nations and the state,” said Speaker Vos. “It’s important to find areas of mutual concern that we can work on together.”
Statement on NCSL National Award to Legislature
"It is an honor to receive this important award as it represents our cooperative efforts to serve the state and our constituents."
Statement on the Bipartisan Day in Assembly
“I’m proud of the work we’re doing to give people more access to treatment. Today we’re replacing many Wisconsin families’ frustrations with comfort and hope."
Speaker Vos, Assembly Honor Frank Lamping with Hometown Hero Award
Wisconsin State Assembly awarded Frank Lamping of Union Grove the Hometown Hero Award, the highest citizen recognition award in the legislature. Lamping was joined by 14 of his friends and family members in the Assembly for the ceremony.
Statement on Assembly Democrats’ Tax and Spend Plan
“Now is not the time to raise income taxes. Everyone in our state needs tax relief, especially the people who are growing the economy. Assembly Democrats want to raise income taxes by $400 million and hike taxes on farmers and business owners, when Republicans have reduced taxes by $4.7 billion since 2011 and with no support from Democrats."
Statement on Budget Recommendations
“This is a good budget proposal but a work in progress."
Speaker Vos Kicks-off Year of Capitol Centennial Celebrations
“For the last century, this beautiful building has been our state’s monument of democracy,” said Speaker Vos. “This is where democracy comes full circle, where the three coequal branches of government all work together to breathe life into our democracy in their own way.”
Assembly Republican Leaders Ask for New Highway Estimates
“Taxpayers deserve to know how much a road is going to cost before it’s built,” said Speaker Robin Vos (R-Rochester). “Unfortunately, these miscalculations will probably confirm what many of us fear; our transportation fund is deeper in the red than we thought.”
Statement on WisDOT Audit
“The legislative audit is yet another independent report that illustrates construction delays are driving up costs unnecessarily, our road conditions are only getting worse and a long-term solution is needed. It’s clear Wisconsin is trying to do too much with too little and taxpayers are not getting their money’s worth."
Statement on State of State Address
“The state of the state is great and should make everyone proud. We have so much to brag about: our economy is strong, more people are working than ever before, we have excellent schools and Wisconsin is simply an amazing place to call home."
Speaker Vos Calls for Long-Term Solutions
“We must put aside what we think is best for our political careers, and do what’s best for Wisconsin. Instead of attacking one another and saying what shouldn’t be done, let’s work together to find what can be done.”
Statement on Departure of WisDOT Secretary Gottlieb
“Wisconsin is losing one of our most hardworking and articulate public leaders. During his tenure, Secretary Gottlieb transformed the Department of Transportation, made it more efficient and saved taxpayers more than $1.5 billion in the process."
Speaker Vos to Reveal Top 16 Wins for Assembly Republicans
Assembly Speaker Robin Vos (R-Rochester) is ending the year with a countdown of the top 16 accomplishments for Assembly Republicans in the 2015-2016 legislative session.
Speaker Vos Announces Assembly Standing Committees, Chairs
“These committees reflect the priorities of Assembly Republicans and address the most pressing needs of the state. We want to find real solutions to the problems facing Wisconsin families and their communities.”
Transportation Video Release: Road Work Ahead
Speaker Robin Vos released a transportation video entitled, Road Work Ahead, one day before the Assembly Transportation Committee holds an informational hearing on the budget request from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation. The goal of the hearing is to better understand the full ramifications of the proposed transportation budget. The Speaker’s video illustrates the impact bad roads have on emergency responders and ultimately, your family in an emergency.
Speaker Vos Announces Assembly Members of Joint Finance Committee
“These fiscal conservatives will help lead the legislature through the budget process and make the right financial decisions for the state. I’m confident these six legislators will serve Wisconsin well by balancing the budget, addressing the long-term needs of our state, and putting taxpayers first.”
Statement on the Retirement of Secretary Scocos
“I would like to thank Secretary Scocos for his many years of public service in Wisconsin state government. He has been a strong advocate for veterans and their families, and has made Wisconsin a better home for the men and women who served our country."
Statement on the Redistricting Ruling
“The court has essentially created a brand new test that is significantly flawed and is an encroachment by the court into the legislature’s duties. We remain fully confident that the maps were constitutional when adopted, and will remain so when this case is finally concluded.”
Speaker Vos Announces JFC Assembly Chair
Speaker Robin Vos (R-Rochester) would like to announce that Rep. John Nygren (R-Marinette) will continue to be the Assembly Chair of the Joint Committee on Finance (JFC), the budget-writing committee responsible for approving state expenditures, for the next legislative session beginning in January.
Representative Vos Re-Elected Assembly Speaker
Speaker Vos is the 75th Speaker of the Assembly in Wisconsin and will be serving the Assembly in this capacity for a third term.
Honoring our Veterans
Thank you veterans for what you have done for our country and making sure America is free. You have done so much to make sure we get to live in the land of the free and home of the brave.
Thank You Wisconsin!
"I would like to say thank you to the citizens of Wisconsin for building a larger Republican majority in the Wisconsin State Assembly. To the residents of Racine County in the 63rd Assembly District, I'm honored and humbled that once again you have chosen me to be your voice in the Assembly."
Capitol Centennial Commission Begins Work
The first meeting of the 100th Anniversary State Capitol Commemorative Commission will be on Thursday, September 29th. The commission will help organize the celebrations marking the Capitol’s 100 years in 2017.
Assembly GOP Leaders Statement on DOT Budget Request
“This budget request falls short of addressing the long-term funding crisis in our transportation budget. It is a political solution, not a real solution."
Assembly Republicans Unveil Forward Agenda
Speaker Robin Vos and Majority Leader Jim Steineke along with members of the Assembly Republican majority unveiled their Forward Agenda, a broad outline of goals for next session and the future of Wisconsin.
Statement on Speaker's Task Force on Youth Workforce Readiness
"I want to thank the members of the bipartisan task force and Chair Rep. Bob Kulp for their work on this important issue. One of the top concerns that I hear from business owners is that they can’t find enough skilled workers. I appreciate the work of the committee on this critical employment issue in our state."
Joint Press Release on Olympic Victory Tax Repeal
Speaker Robin Vos (R-Rochester) and Representative Joe Sanfelippo (R-New Berlin) announced they will introduce legislation to make Olympic medals and their associated prize money tax free in Wisconsin.
Statement on Election Rulings
“This is a liberal judge’s attempt to undermine our elections less than four months out. It’s also an obvious attempt to usurp the power of the legislature. I’m confident that the laws will be reinstated upon appeal."
Statement on Long-Term Care
“It’s disappointing that the agency withdrew its savings proposal. It’s also unfortunate that people are playing politics with the future care of our most vulnerable citizens."
Statement on U.S. Supreme Court Ruling
“As a pro-life legislator, I will continue to support legislation that protects the life of an unborn child and the health of the mother.”
The Facts on School Funding
“K-12 education is a top priority for Assembly Republicans and it’s reflected in the state budget. Democrats are omitting important facts to fuel their disingenuous statements.”
Statement on Passing of DHS Secretary Kitty Rhoades
"On behalf of all of my fellow legislators, Democrats and Republicans alike, we send our deepest sympathies to the family of Secretary Kitty Rhoades."
Statement on Report from Task Force on Alzheimer’s and Dementia
“With the aging population in our state and our country along with the rising costs associated with care, it’s important that we take a proactive approach to helping families and caregivers who are impacted by Alzheimer’s and dementia"
Study of UW System Confirms Tenure was a “Job for Life”
“It was an important step forward when the tenure policies were removed from state statute to mirror other states in the country,”
Column: Letting Go of the Status Quo
This tenure reform will hopefully mean that the “job for life” employment status and status quo mentality will no longer exist. Tenure has proven to be ironclad job protections in the UW System and we have the numbers to prove it.
Statement on 20th Anniversary of Southern Wisconsin Veterans Cemetery
“The thousands of headstones are reminders of how many great men and women from our area fought for our country. Every single one of them put their lives on the line for America. As the sign says at the entrance to the cemetery “All gave some, some gave all.”
Statement on AG Opinion Affirming Legislative Authority
“The opinion is a victory for the people of Wisconsin as it reinforces that their elected representatives create the laws of our state and not unelected bureaucrats."
Statement on GAB Request for Education Campaign
“I support informing the public about the law that ensures people can exercise their right to vote and would like to review the GAB request to ensure that the money will be well spent."
Statement on Retirement of Justice Prosser
“Wisconsin has become a better state thanks to Justice Prosser and his dedication to serve the citizens of our state. Having worked in every state branch of government over the last 40 years, he has made a lasting impact and will be sorely missed."
Statement on Retirement of Racine Co. DA Rich Chiapete
“Racine County is losing an exceptional top prosecutor and dedicated county leader. Rich worked tirelessly on behalf of the citizens of our county for nearly two decades in the district attorney’s office."
Statement on Milwaukee Bucks Agreement
"Wisconsin residents should know that we’ve kept their best interests in mind in moving forward with this project. I look forward to breaking ground on the new arena this summer.”
Statement on Right-to-Work Decision
"Once again a liberal Dane County judge is trying to legislate from the bench. No one should be forced to join a union or pay union dues as a condition of employment"
Statement on Rep. Al Ott Retirement
As the longest serving representative currently in the Wisconsin State Assembly, Al has certainly proven that with experience comes wisdom. For 30 years, Al has fought for bipartisan collaboration to develop the best public policy for the people of Wisconsin
Statement on Passing of Former State Rep. Grigsby
"Tamara will be remembered as a passionate public servant. My prayers are with her family at this difficult time.”
Speaker Vos Appoints Commission Members
“Both individuals bring a great deal of experience to the commissions. I have every confidence that they serve our state well in this new capacity,”
Statement on Rep. Murtha Retirement
"John is a respected leader in the Assembly Republican caucus. He will be missed for not only his dedication to the team, but also for his great sense of humor."
Statement on 2015-16 Legislative Session
“Assembly Republicans followed through on our promises that were set out in our Forward Agenda. We balanced the budget, cut taxes on middle class families, and held the line on property taxes. Wisconsin continues to have a record amount in the state’s rainy day fund"
Statement on Rep. Larson’s Retirement
“I would like to thank Tom for his years of service in the Assembly. It’s been a pleasure to work alongside such a humble and hardworking man. His experience and expertise in the technical fields have been an asset to the Assembly Republican caucus."
Statement on State of the Tribes Address
“On behalf of the Wisconsin State Assembly, I would like to thank Lac Courte Oreilles Chairman, Mic Isham, and the Tribal Nations of Wisconsin for bringing us the annual update at the Capitol today. The State of the Tribes event gives both lawmakers and the people of Wisconsin a chance to learn more about the issues the tribes are facing, and the successes they’ve had this year. I look forward to continuing to work on areas of mutual concern.”
Speaker Vos Announces State of the Tribes Address
“I’m pleased that we can continue this Assembly tradition,” said Speaker Vos. “It’s important to find areas of mutual interest between our governments and work together to address shared concerns.”
Statement on Projected Surplus
"It’s our job to move the state forward with sound fiscal practices with an eye toward smaller government and more opportunity for our citizens"
Statement on State of State Address
“Our state has come a long way in the last five years under GOP leadership and it’s only going to get better from here.”
Statement on Wisconsin Cares Legislative Package
“The Wisconsin Cares legislative package is a step in the right direction, as we work together to help families coping with Alzheimer’s and dementia. It’s a disease that cannot be cured, prevented or slowed, so educating caregivers and employers about its devastating effects is a top priority."
Statement on the Rural Wisconsin Initiative
“I applaud the efforts of the group of Assembly Republicans led by Representatives Ed Brooks, Travis Tranel and Romaine Quinn. Their proposals begin an important conversation regarding how to shape a better future for rural Wisconsin."
Assembly Honors Mount Pleasant Student
“I am honored to give this award to one of the youngest Hometown Heroes in Wisconsin.”
Statement on Announcement from Rep. Dean Knudson
“The Assembly and the state of Wisconsin will lose a bold leader when Dean leaves office. Dean has been a strong fiscal conservative voice in the Joint Committee on Finance and recently authored the important reforms to replace the Government Accountability Board."
Statement on Retirement of Rep. Dave Heaton
“I would like to thank Dave for his service to the Wausau area and the state of Wisconsin. He has proven that in a short period of time that you can make a big difference. This session Dave has served as the vice-chair of the Committee on Consumer Protection and authored numerous pieces of legislation including bills to limit public benefit fraud, provide support for veterans, and advocate for the safety and well-being of children."
