I am pleased to report that my bill to combat child trafficking was signed into law by Governor Walker on Monday. The provisions in the new law address a criminal activity that is often 'hidden in plain sight'. This law send a strong message that human trafficking and child sex abuse will not be tolerated in Wisconsin.

A video of me explaining the child trafficking legislation is available through this link:

http://media2.legis.wisconsin.gov/multimedia/asm45/loudenbeckchildtrafficking.wmv

Janesville Innovation Center Groundbreaking

Recently the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel printed an article that contained the following excerpt: "Wisconsin has dramatically improved its ability to incubate businesses, moving up to 29th among all states from 43rd in 2010, according to an annual competitiveness measure released by the Beacon Hill Institute at Suffolk University in Boston."  

This is wonderful news and ties in well with Tuesday's Groundbreaking for the new Janesville Innovation Center.  According to City of Janesville Economic Development Director Vic Grassman, "The Janesville Innovation Center represents a community business investment that responds to a variety of business types and needs in the greater Janesville area. One of the primary needs is to provide new and early stage companies with availability to flexible, short –term leases for small office and manufacturing spaces that combine business support services at affordable rates.  This “business incubator” environment provides resources and technical assistance for entrepreneurs and their newly formed start-up companies. Incubator goals include the mentoring, establishment and growth of local entrepreneurs and their fledgling companies."

A link to my prepared remarks for the groundbreaking is available on my website.

Online Toolkit for Entrepreneurs

Have you been thinking about starting your own business but aren't sure where to start? The Entrepreneur's Toolkit may be exactly what you need to put your ideas into action. The new online Toolkit was produced by the Wisconsin Technology Council in partnership with the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation and is available at http://www.WItoolkit.com.

The Entrepreneur's Toolkit is designed to give innovators a pathway to resources available in Wisconsin and beyond. Entrepreneurs can learn about a variety of business assistance programs, redesigned loan and grant programs, angel and venture resources, specific information about local business incubators and accelerators as well as basics of running a home business.

Updates from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources

Free 2012 Fishing Calendar and Fishing Report

Opening day of the regular fishing season will soon be here! The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has created new sources of information to make fishing in Wisconsin easier and more fun. The Wisconsin DNR has announced that the 2012 Year of Fish and Fishing Calendar with important fishing season dates, moon phases, and tips is available online here.  The 2012 Wisconsin Fishing Report, a detailed newspaper on fishing in Wisconsin waters and fishing forecasts for the coming year is available online here

Input on Rules and Regulations Affecting Small Businesses

The DNR is in the process of conducting a comprehensive review of existing environmental rules which hinder small business job creation and small business growth. The DNR will recommend changes to the rules that reduce the burden on job creators while complying with the intent of the statutes that created them. You can take the survey on DNR rules and regulations here.

E-Updates on Website Only

I have appreciated the opportunity to communicate with my constituents through E-Updates over the many months of this legislative session. Pursuant to s. 11.33, of Wisconsin Statutes, a Representative who becomes a candidate for office may not use public funds to distribute 50 or more pieces of identical material after the first day for circulation of nomination papers. This means that after April 15, I can no longer send out the E-Update to all of you as it conflicts with the beginning of campaign season. However, I will periodically produce an E-Update that will be posted on my website.