I hope you had a great Labor Day weekend and are enjoying the fall weather. The legislature is picking up again after the summer months, with committees meeting in preparation for session at the end of this month. In August, I introduced Assembly Resolution 20 (AR 20) which would amend the order in which testimonies are given at public hearings. This would ensure that members of the public are heard before registered lobbyists and/or state governmental officials who are not the author of the proposal.
As always, please contact my office if you have any questions or concerns. Continue reading for updates on COVID-19 vaccines, back to school, fair maps and more.
Sincerely,
COVID-19 Vaccine Update
Governor Tony Evers and the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) announced last week that eligibility for the $100 COVID-19 Vaccine Reward Program will be extended to Sunday, September 19th, 2021. The program opened August 20th and is available to anyone ages 12 and up in Wisconsin who gets their first dose of COVID-19 vaccine by Sept. 19th. Read the full announcement HERE.
As of September 7th, 6,171,269 COVID-19 vaccines have been administered in Wisconsin and 55.3% of Wisconsin residents have received at least one dose, with 51.9% fully vaccinated.
If you would like to get vaccinated, you can find a vaccine provider near you at vaccines.gov or at the county health websites: Sauk, Dane, Columbia, and Iowa.
Source: Wisconsin Department of Health Services
USDA to Run Wisconsin Hemp Program
As many of you may know, the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) currently administers the Wisconsin hemp program. Starting on January 1st, 2022 the administration of this program will transition to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). This transition will allow for the streamlining of rule changes, the elimination of state licensing fees, and more flexibility with testing/sampling services.
Read DATCP's full announcement on this change HERE.
Photo from 2019 farm tour of Rising Sand Organics
Fair Maps Update
The redistricting process is in motion! Make your voice heard through the People's Maps Commission by submitting input and your own fair map to help guide the work of those on the commission. Submit your feedback HERE and stay tuned this fall for further updates on the legislative redistricting process.
Find more information on the People’s Maps Commission HERE.
Staying Safe Going Back to School
As a former educator, this time of year brings fond memories. There is much excitement at the beginning of a new school year and endless potential for growth. This year also brings many challenges, as COVID-19 continues to spread throughout our community. We must all do our part to make sure students stay safe in school. By following CDC guidance and working to slow the spread of COVID-19, you can help protect children who cannot get vaccinated.
Read State Superintendent Jill Underly's statement on getting back to school safely HERE.
DNR Update
As we think forward to the upcoming deer season, the Department of Natural Resources is reminding hunters of ways to slow the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD). This will protect our state's deer population. Some helpful tips to slow the spread of CWD include:
Being mindful of baiting and feeding practices and how they increase the potential for CWD spread
It is World Alzheimer's Month. During this month people from around the world get together to reduce the stigma of dementia and raise awareness for Alzheimer's. My office has completed a respectful workplace training for dementia and Alzheimer's so that we can respond effectively and compassionately in these situations.
September is National Suicide Prevention Month. As a member of the Assembly Committee on Mental Health and a longstanding advocate for mental health supports, this is very important to me.
This month I ask you to take a moment to remember those affected by suicide and promote prevention awareness. There are many ways to do this, including using these resources:
If you ever need assistance, please reach out. You can call 211 for assistance on many topic such as paying your bills, mental health resources, and more. 211 is a resource managed by the United Way of Wisconsin. Call 2-1-1 or visit their website.
Department of Corrections Helpline: The call center can be reached by members of the public Monday through Friday from 7:45am–4:30pm at (608) 240-5700.
I encourage you to reach out to my office with any questions or concerns during this time. It is important to me to hear from you on issues at the state level.
