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Friends and Neighbors,
I hope everyone is well and enjoying the nice spring weather. It sure is great not having to bundle up before taking my dogs, Henry and Sadie, on a walk! I have been hard at work in Madison this month as I recently helped form a Legislative Democratic Labor Workgroup with my colleagues: Rep. Sinicki, Rep. Shankland, and Sen. Ringhand. Our mission is to work together to stand with labor and workers, and to introduce legislation which supports a pro-worker and pro-labor agenda. I look forward to the future progress of this group as we continue to work with members in our community to support workers across Wisconsin.
Wisconsin still remains among the top of the list in the nation for vaccine distribution. Over 30% of Wisconsinites are fully vaccinated and over 40% have received at least one dose. I applaud Governor Evers and his staff for their excellent work to ensure every Wisconsinite who wants a vaccine, is able to get one. I strongly encourage everyone to get the vaccine, if you are able, to prevent the spread of the recent mutations occurring in Wisconsin and around the nation. If we continue to maintain good practices, I am hopeful we will be able to enjoy this summer with our family and friends.
I always welcome your feedback and opinions, so please feel free to contact me. Also, if you would like something to be included in future e-newsletters, just let me know at (608) 266-0455 or Rep.Ohnstad@legis.wi.gov.
Sincerely,
Wisconsin Vaccine Distribution
Vaccine distribution in Wisconsin has increased over 10% since my last report. Below is the latest data:
- In Kenosha County, 37.6% (63,773) residents have received at least one dose of the vaccine. 29.1% (49,269) residents have completed their second vaccine.
- In Wisconsin, 42.1% (2,452,970) residents have received at least one dose of the vaccine. 31.5% (1,834,240) residents have completed their second vaccine.
- 166,181 Johnson & Johnson doses administered
- 1,806,606 Moderna doses administered
- 2,255,817 Pfizer doses administered
A few weeks ago, I was pleased to tour the Pfizer Distribution Center with Governor Evers and Rep. Kerkman. I was truly impressed – this is a state of the art facility run by wonderful, top caliber staff right here in our community. I’m proud of the work they are doing to stop the spread of COVID-19 by ensuring vaccines are going out the door.
Governor Evers' Investment in Main Street Businesses
Earlier this month, the Governor announced a $100 million investment in Main Street Bounceback grants to revitalize communities. This will help bring business to vacant storefronts and offer an Equitable Recovery program to boost initiatives by community partners who are doing work to eliminate disparities and promoting equity and inclusion.
Wisconsin Tax Deadline Delayed
Wisconsin’s Department of Revenue and the Internal Revenue Service announced the tax deadline has been delayed until May 17th this year. If you have not filed taxes yet, you have until May 17th to do so; however, please file as soon as possible if you are able to.
Somers House Mass Shooting
My heart breaks for those who lost a loved one during this tragedy. I want to offer my deepest condolences and support to the families and friends who are mourning. This was truly a senseless act of violence and I’m so sorry for anyone who suffered a loss during this mass shooting. If you are struggling with this tragedy and are looking for state resources to help you out through this difficult time, please email me at Rep.Ohnstad@legis.wisconsin.gov and I will be sure to locate the help you need.
Medicaid Expansion
It is imperative our state joins the 38 others who have expanded coverage to their citizens. We not only would be able to provide health coverage to thousands more of our neighbors, but would also gain hundreds of millions of additional dollars that could be used for roads, schools, and other priorities. If Wisconsin expanded Medicaid, our state would see an additional $1.6 Billion boost for our budget while covering 90,000 more Wisconsinites. This seems like a no-brainer; however, Legislative Republicans continue to play politics and strike down any discussion expansion. In such a difficult economy, we shouldn’t be turning away the money the federal government is offering us. I will continue to fight for Medicaid Expansion in Wisconsin. I recently wrote a Guest Column on Medicaid Expansion in the Kenosha News. ICYMI -- click here to read it!
Unemployment Assistance
I understand there are serious issues with the unemployment system here in Wisconsin. While wait times and payment processing have significantly improved, I’m aware there are still many issues. It is important Wisconsinites are able to use this critical program when they need it most.
If you or someone you know is struggling to get their unemployment payments, my staff is able to help. Please call my office at 608-266-0455 or email Rep.Ohnstad@legis.wisconsin.gov. My office will be sure to send your claim directly to the Department of Workforce Development.
Updates on COVID-19 in Wisconsin
Every week, I get on Channel 14 and discuss the current state of the pandemic in our state. It’s uploaded on YouTube by Kenosha Community Media and also on my Facebook Page.
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjBwpIyzNoTsr00YpDEWtTA
Facebook Page
https://www.facebook.com/RepTodOhnstad
Shop Local
Small businesses need your support during this tough time. Your generosity will help maintain jobs, allow more money to be invested into our community, and continue to make our community a destination.
Labor Times Column
Every month I write a column in the Labor Times Newspaper where I discuss my legislative priorities, events I participated in, and what's happening in our community. I encourage you to subscribe to Labor Times by liking their Facebook page. If you would like to subscribe to the Southeast Wisconsin Labor Times Newspaper, call (262)-595-0329 or email marymodder@hotmail.com.
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