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Friends and Neighbors,
I want to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! As I reflect on this past year, time sure has flew by as we all faced challenges and setbacks due to the ongoing pandemic. Whether your business had to close its doors or you lost a loved one, I am sorry for the pain you went through. I want you to know my office is here if you need assistance finding resources in our community. I am hopeful 2022 will be a great year and one where we can turn the page on the pandemic.
Even though the Assembly is not scheduled to meet until mid-January, Madison has been quite busy with committee work and recent legislation I introduced with Senator Wirch and Representative McGuire. Most of my recent committee work has been in State Affairs and Ways and Means. Both committees have had their share of controversial and non-controversial bills this year; however, I am pleased with the several bipartisan bills we passed this year in both committees.
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,
Closing a Loophole
While Wisconsin law generally prohibits a minor from possessing a dangerous weapon, there is an exception which allows a minor to possess a long gun or rifle if the barrel is longer than 16 inches. The bill I introduced simply clarifies a minor may only possess a longer gun or rifle if they are legally hunting and in compliance with hunting laws. Minors will still be able to trap shoot, target practice, and take lessons from a certified instructor.
The initial law was signed into law to respect Wisconsin’s rich tradition of hunting; my bill simply clarifies the intent of the law passed decades ago – allowing minors to hunt. This is a dangerous loophole and it must be clarified.
In the Community
I was pleased to attend the Navy Club 40 event last week in honor of the 80th Anniversary of Pearl Harbor.
Surveys
I want to thank everyone who has returned a survey response to my office. If you have not, I would love for you to fill it out and send it to me. I enjoy reading them and hearing your opinion on the issues facing our community.
Millions in Grant Funding
Earlier this month, Governor Evers announced more than $14 million in grants to Movie Theaters, Summer Camps, and Minor League Sports Teams. This was funded by the federal American Rescue Plan Act. Thank you Governor Evers!
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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