Legislative Update

I hope you are doing well. It's been quite hectic down in Madison these past few weeks.  Between debate on the floor and the Governors' recent budget address, the Legislature seems to be in full-swing. 

Wisconsin recently announced the locations for Additional Community-Based Vaccination Clinics, which included La Crosse County. The clinic will be located at the UW-La Crosse Cleary Alumni Center, beginning March 9th from 11am - 7pm Tuesday through Saturday. 

As I know many of you are hoping to get the vaccine as soon as possible, La Crosse County is still working on vaccinating those 65 or older. For the first few weeks of the clinic, they will be prioritizing that specific population.

As of March 2nd, 23,156 La Crosse County residents have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. This number should significantly increase in the coming weeks as the county anticipates those 65+ and educators should have both doses by April. If you are eligible for the vaccine and still have not received one, please fill out the Vaccine Registry Form. 

Rental Assistance Program

Wisconsin has created a program to assist those who are struggling due to COVID-19. If you are a renter who has been struggling and need assistance with your rent, utilities, and/or other housing stability, please click here to apply. 

Paycheck Protection Program

If you are a business owner with 20 or fewer employees, I encourage you to enroll for the Paycheck Protection Program by clicking here. The deadline is Tuesday, March 9th at 5pm ET.

If you are concerned about state income tax on these loans, the Legislature recently passed Assembly Bill 2 which ensured business owners would not be subject to state income tax on PPP loans. I was pleased to support this bill and see the Governor sign it into law. It was great to offer businesses the much needed relief they deserve. 

Dairy Award 

I was proud to have received a Legislative Excellence Award from the Dairy Business Association! Strengthening and promoting Wisconsin's dairy community has always been a priority of mine down in Madison. I'm going to work hard this session to ensure our rural communities have the resources to thrive and be successfully, especially after such a tough year. 

Until next time, 

Steve