Technical College Legislation Receives Public Hearing

This week, the committee on Colleges and Universities held a public hearing on Assembly Bill 266.  I introduced this legislation with Senator Mary Felzkowski to allow Wisconsin technical colleges to provide Associate of Arts and Associate of Science transfer programs without approval from the University of Wisconsin system. This legislation would allow Northcentral Technical College the same opportunity as other technical colleges in the state and would go along ways to ensuring that the people of Marathon County and the rest of northcentral Wisconsin have access to the same opportunities as students in other parts of the state. 

Currently, only six tech colleges have the ability to offer these programs. Expanding the number of the technical colleges that would be able to offer such transfer programs would allow more coverage for education across the state providing better opportunities to students of all types. 

Expanding the number of technical colleges that can offer Associate of Arts and Associate of Science transfer programs will benefit employers, schools, communities, and most importantly students across Wisconsin.

 

Budget Update

This week the Legislature took additional action on the State Budget. The Joint Finance Committee (JFC) voted to:

  • Increase funding for tourism
  • Increase funding by $600,000 for housing assistance for homelessness
  • Add additional positions for election cybersecurity

I will continue to provide updates throughout the budget process. Please never hesitate to reach out regarding your thoughts on the state budget. 

 

 

Unemployment Benefits Update

The Joint Committee for Review of Administrative Rules voted in favor of suspending Emergency Rule 2106. This suspension will reinstate the work-search requirement for unemployment benefits. Starting this Sunday, Wisconsinites will have to perform 4 approved work search actions every week. 

You can find additional information on work search requirements here.

Please reach out to my office if you need assistance with your unemployment claim.

 

COVID-19 Vaccine Update

All Wisconsinites age 16 and over are eligible for COVID-19 vaccines. However be aware that, some areas of the state may have a higher demand for vaccinations and may have waitlists. Vaccine providers will prioritize anyone previously eligible such as public-facing essential workers and people with medical conditions.

The Marathon County Community Vaccine Clinic at Northcentral Technical College's Center for Business and Industry is still operating from 11 am to 7 pm, Monday through Saturday. To make an appointment, please use the WI COVID-19 registry.

 

 

2019-2020 Blue Books & maps (paper highway maps or laminated maps) are still available in my office! The Wisconsin Blue Book contains information on all things Wisconsin, including census information, state history, official state symbols, and everything about Wisconsin government! Contact me for your free copy today!