This week Governor Walker signed into law the Heroin Opiate Prevention and Education (H.O.P.E.) legislative package during stops in Marinette, Stevens Point, Eau Claire, and Milwaukee. This package of seven bills was spearheaded by my colleague Rep. John Nygren from Marinette, who shared his family’s personal story in calling attention to the struggles of opiate/heroin use and addiction.

“Wisconsin, like many states across the country, is experiencing a dangerous trend – an escalating number of cases of heroin use, addiction, and overdose,” Governor Walker said. “Heroin addiction does not discriminate, and we have to take action to protect our friends, family members, and neighbors, who need help.”

Statewide, the number of people arrested for heroin-related offenses rose 79 percent to 671 between 2010 and 2012, according to the Wisconsin Department of Justice. The quantity of heroin submitted to the State Crime Lab more than doubled during that time. Heroin overdose deaths rose about 50 percent in Wisconsin in 2012 to 199.

Assembly Bill 447 – provides limited immunity to people who call for help for someone who is suffering from an overdose. Assembly Bill 447 passed the Assembly 96-0 and the Senate on a voice vote; it is Act 194.

Assembly Bill 701 – creates new innovative option for individuals facing heroin and opioid addiction. Offers the option of a long-term opioid antagonist drug (Vivitrol), which blocks the effects of opioids for 30 days, and creates regional comprehensive opioid treatment programs in rural and underserved areas of the state. Assembly Bill 701 passed the Assembly 95-0 and unanimously passed the Senate; it is Act 195.

Assembly Bill 702 – addresses drug offender recidivism; allows short-term sanctions for people who violate conditions of extended supervision, parole, probation, or deferred prosecution agreement. Assembly Bill 702 passed both the Assembly and the Senate on a voice vote; it is Act 196.

Assembly Bill 668 – nearly doubles funding for treatment and diversion (TAD) programs offering alternatives to prosecution or incarceration for substance abuse, allowing 10-15 new programs to receive funding. Assembly Bill 668 passed the Assembly 95-0 and the Senate 32-0; it is Act 197.

Assembly Bill 448 – regulates drug disposal programs throughout Wisconsin and makes more drug repositories more accessible. Assembly Bill 448 passed the Assembly 96-0 and was concurred by the Senate on a voice vote; it is Act 198.

Assembly Bill 445 – requires individuals to show identification when picking up Schedule II or III narcotic/opiate prescriptions. Assembly Bill 445 passed the Assembly 96-0 and was concurred by the Senate on a voice vote; it is Act 199.

Assembly Bill 446 – requires all EMTs to carry the drug naloxone (also known by the brand names Narcan, Nalone, Evzio, and Narcanti), which counteracts opiate overdoses, and administer it in cases of overdose. Under AB 446, more people will be allowed to carry naloxone, including first responders, law enforcers, and firefighters. Assembly Bill 446 passed the Assembly 96-0 and passed the Senate on a voice vote; it is Act 200.

This week Wednesday, April 9 the new Walmart Supercenter opened in Merrill. The new store relocated from its previous location on Main Street, and is now located at 505 S. Pine Ridge Avenue. In addition to general merchandise, the new store offers grocery and pharmacy services. The new Supercenter brought an additional 85 jobs to the Merrill area, bringing the total number of employees to 200. It was an honor to join Mayor Bill Bialecki for the ribbon-cutting ceremony, and this weekend Saturday Walmart will welcome the community for additional family events and celebration.

Merrill FotoNews: Walmart welcomes Merrill customers to new Supercenter

By now many of you have likely received my spring legislative newsletter. The newsletter outlines some of the highlights this session and provides useful contact information on ways to keep in touch.

If you did not receive a spring newsletter, and would like a copy, please give my office a call and we'd be happy to send one your way.

Because 2014 is an election year, state law limits the number of emails incumbents who are running for reelection can send out. Therefore, my e-updates will be put on hold until after the November election. Please continue to keep in touch, and I urge you to  let me know if you have any questions, concerns, or ideas.

I will continue to update my website so check back often. Additionally, I have a Facebook page and will post current events and announcements there.

Thank you for your continued support,