Putting Kids First

Earlier this week Legislative Republicans and I made a formal request to Governor Evers requesting that he use new federal education funds given to the state to support schools that have provided in-person instruction since the start of the school year.  Recognizing and rewarding school districts that have been safely providing in-person instruction should be a top priority.  Click here to listen my radio address on the request.

COVID-19 Vaccine Update

New eligibility criteria were added for the COVID-19 vaccine earlier this week. Currently teachers and child care workers are being prioritized - along with other previously eligible groups. 

DHS also released a COVID-19 vaccine provider map, which displays vaccine sites that are actively vaccinating around the state.  Please note that all vaccinations are by appointment only, and vaccine sites on the map are color-coded to indicate which individuals are eligible at a particular location.

Buy Local Buy Wisconsin  

The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection (DATCP) recently announced that their “Buy Local, Buy Wisconsin” producer and processor grant program has opened for 2021. This grant program offers assistance to individuals and small businesses in Wisconsin’s agricultural and food industries.

Managed by DATCP, the grants can help farms and businesses more efficiently process, market, and distribute food in local markets, including stores, schools, and institutions. Keeping food dollars in Wisconsin communities supports local businesses, improves farm incomes, and creates jobs.

Grant proposals are due by 12:00 PM on March 26th.

Rental Assistance Program

The State of Wisconsin has created the Wisconsin Emergency Rental Assistance Program (WERA). Wisconsinites can receive help on current and/or overdue bills up to a year from the State in conjunction with their local Community Action program offices and Energy Service Inc.

Households that may qualify include those where at least one or more individuals in your home meets the following:

1. Qualifies for unemployment or has experienced a reduction in household income, experienced major costs, or experienced financial struggles due to COVID-19;

2. Demonstrates a risk of being evicted or losing your home; and,

3. Has a household income at or below 80 percent of the county median.

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 the Wisconsin government! Contact me for your free copy today!