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Friends and Neighbors, 

I hope your summer is off to a great start. The budget was debated on the Assembly floor late into the night. When Governor Evers announced his budget priorities earlier this year, I was pleased to see the investments in many critical programs. However, to no surprise, the Republicans immediately rejected many of the proposals the Governor laid out even though these proposals were supported by a majority of Wisconsinites.

I voted against the 2021-23 Biennial Budget last night because of the Republican failure to provide the investments the Governor called for. Crafting a budget should involve Republicans and Democrats working together, which certainly did not happen. After deleting provisions to restore worker protections, raise the minimum wage, legalize marijuana, accept over a billion dollars in federal funds to expand healthcare, and hundreds of more provisions, this budget was truly a disappointment. Hear my speech on the Assembly floor by clicking here.  

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, 

Voter Disenfranchisement Legislation

Republicans continue to dwell on the results of the past election by passing legislation making it harder to vote. While proper regulations are and must be in place, I find it disappointing we would add burdens to access to the ballot box. Voting is our most basic fundamental right and the most cornerstone of tenants of any democracy; it is truly outrageous we would add obstacles to voting for those with disabilities and those living in residential living facilities.

Policing Reform Bills

This month the Assembly took action on a number of bills related to law enforcement policies and training. I was proud to both support and also cosponsor a majority of these important bills.

While this is a start, it is clear further reform and resources are necessary to ensure a standard protocol is established in all communities across Wisconsin. I will continue to work on and support police reform bills with my colleagues in the future.

Transgender Legislation

I was completely disgusted with Republicans as they passed mean-spirited, discriminatory legislation against the transgender community. We need to be focusing on real issues, not degrading a community who has and continue to fight the struggles they face when they are simply expressing their true-self. I stand with this community and will strongly oppose any legislation which attempts to make them any less of a person than their peers.

Raising the Minimum Wage

I was pleased to attend the Raise the Wage press conference a few weeks ago. I met several Wisconsinites who work full-time yet live in poverty. It’s time we pay workers the wages they deserve – which is why I am a proud co-author of a bill raising the minimum wage here in Wisconsin. As Republicans have rejected raising the minimum wage in the past and also stripped it from the budget, I will continue to fight for those struggling. 

Juneteenth Celebration

I was glad to join the Legislative Black Caucus, Gov. Evers, Lieutenant Governor Barnes, and others for spirited celebration of Juneteenth Day at the Capitol. I also attended a Juneteenth celebration in Kenosha – thank you to Alvin Owens and so many others for organizing this event. These were both great!

Petrifying Springs Park Pike River Restoration Grant

Petrifying Springs Park recently received a Wisconsin Coastal Management Program grant. This is great news for the park as it will complete restoration and engineering designs, site assessments, and permit a stretch of the Pike River at Petrifying Springs Park.  

Governor Evers Announces Tourism Grants

Last week, Governor Evers announced more than $140 million in grants to businesses and organizations in Wisconsin’s tourism and entertainment industries: live event venues, movie theaters, summer camps, minor league sports, and the lodging industry. This will go a long way in helping bring tourism back to Wisconsin!

To learn more and receive further updates on this grant, please follow this link: https://content.govdelivery.com/.../WIGOV/bulletins/2e5424d

Unemployment Assistance

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

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. 

Events 

What: Anderson Arts Center Exhibitions

See details by clicking here


What: Bike Races at Washington Park Velodrome

See details by clicking here


Kenosha Kingfish Baseball Games

See details by clicking here


Live Music at Union Park Tavern

See details by clicking here


Kenosha Pops Concert

See details by clicking here


Pike River Benefit Concert Series

See details by clicking here


Celebrate America Fireworks

See details by clicking here


Somers 4th of July 1-mile Parade Run

See details by clicking here


Kemper Center Events 

See details by clicking here


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CONTACT INFO:

Phone: 608-237-9530           

Email: Rep.Ohnstad@legis.wisconsin.gov

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Copyright © 2017 State Representative Tod Ohnstad, 65th Assembly District. All rights reserved.