I first want to say I am honored to be re-elected as your state representative! I am extremely excited to represent you in the state assembly for the next two years and promise that I will continue to fight for justice and change in our wonderful state. I also want to acknowledge that Madison has elected the first Asian American representative to the state legislature, Francesca Hong, and the first Muslim representative to the state legislature, Samba Baldeh. I am so happy that our state government is becoming more representative of the people of Wisconsin and Dane County, and I am looking forward to working with my new colleagues.
Covid-19 Continues to Spread Rapidly Throughout Wisconsin
On Thursday, November 5, Wisconsin reported 5,922 new cases of Covid-19, while the 7-day new case average is at 4,989 new cases per day. The 7-day positivity rate is now at 32%, compared to a 17.5% positivity rate one month ago, and at 7.8% three months ago. Wisconsin currently has less than 1350 hospital beds available, with statewide hospital capacity at 88%. 21% of hospitalized Covid-19 patients are in the ICU currently. Data is from WI DHS, source linked above.
Second Round of All In Grants Announced
On October 19th, a second round of We’re All In Grants was announced for small businesses in Wisconsin. This additional $50 Million in grants will be distributed among roughly 10,000 businesses. This is the latest effort by the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation to assist small business. Previously WEDC distributed over $65 Million in CARES act funding to nearly 26,000 businesses across the state. A full press release on the matter can be foundhere
Governor Evers Updates on Investments made in Public Health, Emergency Response, and Economic Stabilization
On October 20th, Governor Evers provided an update with how federal funds were being invested in order to steer Wisconsin through the COVID-19 pandemic. “We know that the COVID-19 pandemic has affected Wisconsinites in every corner of our state,” said Gov. Evers. “We’re going to continue working to make sure that every Wisconsinite knows how these funds are being used to fight the pandemic and support families, farmers, and small businesses who need it most.” A full description of the accounting done can be found here, and additional information can be found on the Department of Administration’s websitehere
Department of Health Services Reports Highest Single-Day COVID-19 Death Count
On October 21st, Governor Evers announced that DHS reported the highest single day death count, with 48 Wisconsin lives lost on a single day. Gov. Evers said “Folks, please stay home. Help us protect our communities from this highly-contagious virus and avoid further strain on our hospitals.” As COVID-19 continues to break records, DHS urges Wisconsin residents to stay home to reduce the strain on the healthcare system.
New Data Dashboard Displays COVID-19 Impact by Race/Ethnicity
On October 21st, DHS announced a data dashboard to display how COVID-19 is impacting ethnic and racial minorities. This new tool illustrates the disparities and unique health obstacles that face certain communities in Wisconsin. “COVID-19 reminds us of the fact that every person’s health is intertwined with the health of their neighbors in our communities,” said Governor Tony Evers. “Our Black neighbors, Tribal Nations, Latinx communities, and other communities of color are bearing the brunt of this pandemic.” To view this dashboard,click here. For a full version of the press release,click here.
Gov. Evers Most Recent Emergency Orders
Click hereto read Executive Order #90- Declaration of Public Health Emergency
Click here to read Emergency Order #1- Requiring Face Masks
Click here to read Emergency Order #3- Limitation of Public Gatherings
Beginning June 15th, Tenant Resource Center will be accepting online applications. Please call 608-257-0006 or visit their website for more information:
Dane County is partnering with the Tenant Resource Center to administer a $10 million eviction-prevention fund using money from the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act to meet the needs of the newly unemployed or underemployed.
The effort also delivers $500,000 in new eviction-prevention funding to neighborhood-based Joining Forces for Families offices, and spends $390,000 on limited-term housing assistance staff and rental aid by expanding an existing program provided by Catholic Charities of Madison.
If you are facing eviction and need legal assistance, please contact Legal Action of Wisconsin. If you receive a notice of termination or eviction court papers, please call Legal Action’s intake line 1-855-947-2529 or email hmw@legalaction.orgfor eviction support.
Speakers Taskforce on Racial Disparities
On October 28th, the Speakers Taskforce on Racial Disparities had its first meeting with all the members of the Taskforce present. I was proud to be joined by my fellow Co-Chair Majority Leader Rep.Steineke, and my fellow legislative members Rep.Haywood and Rep. Wittke. The leaders that are a part of this taskforce come from many diverse backgrounds, including faith based and non-profit organizations, and experts in law enforcement, public health, and education.
After generations of racial inequality, this Taskforce is ready to say enough is enough. By bringing together these community voices, we stand a chance at ending the racial disparities that plague our state. On August 31st, Governor Evers and Lt. Governor Barnes introduced a criminal justice reform package that would have been a step of progress against racial disparities in policing. However, with no action from our Republican colleagues, this is the next feasible step towards change.
The taskforce will be broken up into two subcommittees, one subcommittee on Law Enforcement, and one dedicated towards Economic Development. The next meeting for both subcommittees will be on November 12th. For a full breakdown of the members of this Taskforceclick here
State Agencies
Department of Health and Human Services
DHS Remains Committed to Investment in Rural Wisconsin
On October 29th, DHS announced that $3.1 million in grants will be distributed to enhance the quality of care in rural communities. The grants will assist in helping healthcare facilities fill “high need, high demand” positions. “We know that quality care requires the right workers with the right skills,” said DHS Secretary-designee Andrea Palm. “This is especially true as we move to new models of integrated care and other strategies to reduce disparities, increase quality, and improve health. These grants also continue the State’s investment in growing our own rural physician workforce by prioritizing individuals with Wisconsin ties for new resident positions.” To see the full press release, click here
DHS Lead Policy Advisor Highlights Effort to Prevent Lead Poisoning
On October 26th, Wisconsin Lead Policy Advisor Brian Weaver highlighted how Wisconsin will expand efforts to end childhood lead poisoning. Lead poisoning can cause delays in growth, behavior and create learning challenges. It occurs when children swallow lead contaminated paint or contaminated drinking water. “Many families living in homes with lead hazards already face multiple health inequities,” said Weaver. “COVID-19 creates additional challenges for these families, who are now spending more time at home and have fewer options for blood lead testing due to limited services at some clinics.” For the full press release, click here
Wisconsin Adopts Policy to Suspend, not Terminate, Medicaid Coverage for those Incarcerated
Beginning October 24th, Medicaid members that are incarcerated will have their benefits suspended and re-evaluated before they leave incarceration. Delays in care contribute to poor healthcare outcomes, and lead to re-arrest. DHS and DOC have been in contact with income maintenance agencies to make this policy change. This will increase successful re-entry into the community for those formerly incarcerated. For a full view of the press release,click here
Department of Workforce Development
DWD Announces Lost Wage Assistance Program
On October 21st, DWD announced that the Lost Wages Assistance Program (LWA) has now been launched, and has begun releasing benefits. This program is a part of the FEMA program, and it provides an additional $300 per week to eligible claimants. Eligible claimants need to certify that their wages have been impacted due to COVID-19, and their weekly benefit rate is at least $100. For more details, the full press release can be foundhere
Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection
Transition to New Wisconsin State Hemp Plan Postponed
On October 15th, DATCP announced that the Wisconsin State Hemp Plan will be postponed, and instead the Hemp Pilot Research Program will be extended another year. This action was made with support from Wisconsin’s Hemp industry, and DATCP continues to focus on finding ways to best serve and support hemp grower and processor communities. A full press release can be foundhere
Registration for Landscape Pesticide Advance Notices Open until Feb.1 2021
On November 2nd, DATCP announced that the landscape pesticide registry is open for applications for the 2021 growing season. In addition, you can register to receive notification of pesticide application for land on or around your residence. You can register online by visiting Visithttps://mydatcp.wi.gov and click on “Registries/Lists” and select “Landscape Registry.” A full version of the Press Release with more information can be foundhere
Department of Justice
Attorney General Josh Kaul Joins Opposition to Trump Order appearing to Ban Implicit Bias Training.
On November 2nd, AG Kaul announced that he would join a coalitions of other attorneys general to urge the Trump administration to rescind his executive order on “Combatting Race and Sex Stereotyping”. This order could be construed to prohibit implicit bias trainings from being implemented, and could halt progress in combatting systemic racism. AG Kaul stated: “Implicit bias trainings strengthen workplaces by helping them become more diverse, equitable, and inclusive. The federal government should be promoting implicit bias trainings, not interfering with them.” For more information, a full press release can be foundhere
Death Investigation in Marinette County WI
On October 29th, The Wisconsin Department of Justice reported two deaths had occurred in Goodman, Wisconsin, and are being investigated by the Marinette County Sheriff, and the Wisconsin Department of Justice. One of the deaths is being investigated as an Officer Involved Shooting. Per department policy, involved officers have been placed on leave, and the investigations are ongoing. For more information,click here
Attorney General Kaul Joins Coalition against Limits on International Visas
On October 27th, AG Kaul announced that he would join 22 other state attorneys general to oppose President Trump’s move to restrict the time allowed for international students to reside in the United States. This proposed rule would set fixed limits of two to four years for student visas. The coalition argues that this rule would threaten student achievement, and threaten state economies. For more information, click here
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Attorney General Kaul Statement on Mask Mandate Requirement Ruling
On October 12th, Attorney General Kaul released an official statement in regards to a failed injunction on Governor Evers’ mask mandate. “Today’s ruling is the right one,” said AG Kaul. “Wisconsin currently faces one of the worst COVID-19 outbreaks in the nation, and the mask requirement is a critical protection against the ongoing danger that the coronavirus poses to Wisconsinites’ health. For more information,click here
Department of Military Affairs
Wisconsin National Guard mobilized to serve as November 3rd poll workers
On October 29th, Govenror Evers announced that Wisconsin National Guard will be sent to assist in the November 3rd election. “The Wisconsin National Guard has played a critical role in our response to the COVID-19 pandemic and this mission is no different,” said Gov. Evers. “As Wisconsin faces an urgent crisis with more than 200,000 positive cases of COVID-19 across the state, the help of the Guard will be needed to ensure that Election Day goes smoothly and that voters and election officials alike have the assistance they need.” For more information, visit
Wisconsin National Guard will conduct COVID-19 specimen collection in 45 counties
On November 2nd the Wisconsin National Guard announced that last week, their specimen teams collected a record number of COVID-19 tests. Nearly 49,000 specimens were collected at community testing sites. This increase in specimen collection comes during a record rise of COVID-19 cases in Wisconsin, and is a part of our state’s response to COVID-19. Those seeking a test at a Wisconsin National Guard community-based specimen collection site are urged toregister online in advanceusing the Dynamics Testing and Registration Application(DTRA) program, which is also known as COVID Connect. For more information, click here
Department of Corrections
DOC COVID-19 Resources/Update
COVID-19 has posed a particularly difficult challenge to the Department of Corrections, and those in their care. In order to help curb the spread of COVID-19 among those in the care of DOC, as well as among their staff, several measures have been taken. Their office has worked closely with Governor Evers, and the Department of Health Services to monitor and handle this situation.
For questions regarding COVID-19 and the Department of Corrections call their COVID-19 Response Hotline (608) 240-5700. This hotline is open from 7:45am-4:30pm, Monday through Friday. In addition, please view the DOC COVID-19 Testing Dashboard here
Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation
HARIBO to Begin Work on Pleasant Prairie Factory
On October 26th Governor Evers, alongside local leaders, commended HARIBO’s decision to begin constructing a gummi productions campus in Pleasant Prairie, WI. “HARIBO is the fastest growing confectionery brand in the U.S. I’m proud that its products, which put smiles on the faces of Americans from coast-to-coast, will be made right here in Wisconsin,” said Gov. Evers. “We warmly welcome HARIBO to a long list of family-run enterprises that form the economic backbone of our state, making best-in-class products that reach every corner of the globe.” For more information,click here
Unemployment Updates
On October 27th, DWD released updated information regarding their progress on unemployment claims, and the processing rate. Here are the key takeaways:
92.5% of the 7.6 million weekly Unemployment Insurance claims filed since March 15th 2020.
540,000 claimants have been paid over $4.19 billion since March 15th 2020
568,235 Weekly claims are still being processed, this includes claims awaiting wage verification and adjudication
It is heavily advised that if you are denied eligibility for regular UI benefits that you apply for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). PUA is a temporary program that provides up to 39 weeks of UI benefits that are not eligible for Regular UI. Those who wish to apply to PUA can find out how to do sohere
If you are having trouble reaching out to DWD, or have other questions about your case, please call my office at 608-266-3784.
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Education Updates
Madison Metropolitan School District
Click Hereto read MMSD’s Newsletter from November 4, 2020
Click hereto see MMSD’s list of support resources for families.
Second Quarter of School Year to Remain Virtual
MMSD recentlyannouncedtheir decision to keep school for students virtual for the second quarter of the 2020-2021 school year. This means that MMSD’s instruction will be online until at least January 22, 2021. The decision was made in response to Wisconsin’s continuously rising Covid-19 case numbers.
Historic Referenda Approved
On November 3, Madison voters overwhelminglyapproved two referenda to support and improve Madison’s public schools. The referenda agenda includes building a new elementary school, making current schools more environmentally sustainable, and improving racial equity in the MMSD system. Learn morehere.
Virtual Learning Meal Plans
MMSD is continuing their virtual learning meal plans for students and have served over 365,000 meals this school year! To participate, families can go to a designated pickup sight and receive a meal box for students that has all the components for five balanced breakfast and lunch meals that meet National School Lunch & Breakfast Programs requirements. Families are encouraged to pre-order a box and review the pickup times and locations;click here for more information.
Virtual Learning Resources
Click here for virtual learning resources provided by MMSD.Click herefor options how to obtain Wi-Fi and other technology needed for students.
UW-Madison has announced a new partnership with Shield T3 to expand testing for students, faculty, and staff for the Spring 2021 semester. The partnership will allow UW-Madison to complete an additional 10,000 tests per day and will have a mobile app that people can access their test results on. With the additional tests, UW hopes to test every undergraduate student who lives in Madison twice a week.
Native November
November is Native American Heritage month! In celebration, UW-Madison will be holding a variety of virtual events to learn about, celebrate, and honor Native Americans.Click here for a list of events.
A Record Number of Students Enrolled in the 2020 Summer Semester
Despite an unprecedented shift to virtual learning, UW-Madison saw an 18% increase in summer enrollment this past summer. Many students enroll in summer terms to complete their degrees in 4 years, and to work on other degree requirements like certificate programs. Students collectively completed almost 80,000 credit hours, a demonstration of their resilience and commitment to their education! Click here to read more.
I hope this e-newsletter is helpful and finds you well. Once again, thank you for your feedback on our e-newsletters! You can also follow me on Facebook and Twitter. As always, if you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to contact me at my office or at rep.stubbs@legis.wisconsin.gov or call 608-266-3784. We will make every effort to address your questions and concerns as soon as possible.
