Friends and Neighbors, 

I hope you are doing well. Madison has been quite busy as we are gearing up for several weeks of debate on the floor. Republicans have indicated a vote will be taking place on district maps by the end of November.

Today, Republicans have introduced their maps and to no surprise, they are drawn to keep Republican control of the Legislature. Democrat or Republican, no party should be able to rig the map making process in order to maintain control. Wisconsinites should be choosing their elected officials, not the other way around. I will continue to work with my colleagues and the Governor in continuing the fight for fair maps.

I am proud to share Assembly Bill 223, which is a bill I have been working on since last session, was unanimously passed in the Ways and Means Committee. This bill would eliminate a tax disparity between retired federal workers receiving social security and former federal employees not receiving social security, but instead receiving a pension. I worked in a bipartisan fashion with Rep. Armstrong, and we are both hoping the bill gets brought to the floor for a vote and the Governor signs it into law before the end of the year.

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 Birth Equity Act 

I am pleased to have cosponsored several bills which are part of the Wisconsin Birth Equity Act, a package of bills designed to achieve maternal and child health equity in Wisconsin – introduced by State Representative Shelia Stubbs and State Senator LaTonya Johnson. These bills are essential to disrupt disparities in maternal and child health. Wisconsin is ranked one of the worst states in the nation for maternal and health outcomes and the worst for racial disparities in infant mortality.  

• Black mothers are 5x more likely to die from childbirth or pregnancy
• Indigenous mothers are 4.5x more likely to die from childbirth or pregnancy
• Hispanic women are 2x more likely to have a birth with late or no prenatal care
• Black infants are 3x more likely to die before they reach the age of one
• Indigenous and Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander infants are 2x more likely to die before they reach the age of one.

We cannot ignore these disparities – something needs to change. If you want to get involved and learn more, please click here.  

PTSD Coverage for Emergency Medical Services 

Last session, I was proud to support Wisconsin Act 29, which expanded access for law enforcement officers and firefighters to receive workers’ compensation benefits for post-traumatic stress disorder. Now, this session, I am pleased to have recently signed onto bipartisan legislation which would provide the same coverage to paid emergency medical services practitioners.

Taking a Stance for Racial Equity

I had the pleasure of speaking at a CUSH event to take a stance for racial equity. As you may know, Republicans in the Legislature are pushing through harmful bills which would ban lessons about racial discrimination and anti-racism in our schools.

These bills undoubtedly move us in the wrong direction; however, I am thankful we have Governor Evers who will surely veto this piece of legislation. I am also thankful we have enough Democrats in the Legislature to uphold his veto.

Pike River Celebration 

I was able to celebrate the completion of the Pike River Phase 2 restoration project at Petrifying Springs Park. It was great to see many familiar faces and DNR Secretary Preston Cole there to celebrate as well. This is a much-needed project which will not only aid in improving water quality, but also the habitat of the Pike River.

Peace Tree Ceremony

A White Pine Tree was donated to our community by the Menominee Tribe as a symbol of new unity, change and growth following the civil unrest in our community last year. Mayor Antaramian, Pastor Roy Peeples, Senator Baldwin, Adrian Miller and other members of the Menominee Tribe, and Robert Brown of the Oneida Nation all shared a few words. I want to thank the Menominee Tribe for this generous donation and reminding us of the resilience and growth we encompass.

2021-2022 Wisconsin Blue Book 

I still have blue books in my office to give to those interested. Email me at Rep.Ohnstad@legis.wisconsin.gov with your name and full address to claim one - completely free!

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

Most weeks, 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.