Scholarship Opportunity

If you or someone you know is graduating from high school this spring, I encourage you to learn more about this scholarship opportunity. The WI Towns Association is offering several $1,000 scholarships to students graduating from a WI high school in 2012 and planning to attend a WI college or technical school. Entrants must prepare a short essay on the topic, "What is the appropriate role of recall elections in Wisconsin at the state and local levels?" For more information about how to apply for this scholarship, visit the WI Towns Association website.

Visitors at the Capitol

This week, I met with constituents from the Association of Wisconsin Snowmobile Clubs in my office here in Madison. We had a great discussion about different issues, namely Assembly Bill 465 that would modify laws regulating snowmobiling.

Rep. Kerkman meets with constituents visiting on behalf of the Association of WI Snowmobile Clubs

Caylee's Law Passed Unanimously out of Committee

As you know, I'm the main author of Caylee's Law in the Assembly. I introduced the bill in response to many contacts from constituents encouraging me to sponsor this legislation in the aftermath of the Casey Anthony trial. The bill specifies penalties for failing to report a child missing. I testified before the Assembly Criminal Justice and Corrections Committee this week. Some of the committee members expressed concern that there is no official definition of "missing" currently in WI statutes. I proposed an amendment to Caylees Law specifying a definition of "missing," which the committee approved unanimously. After consideration of the amendment, the Committee approved the bill unanimously as well. Now that the bill has passed out of Committee, it is scheduled for consideration on the floor of the Assembly tomorrow.

Salem Chili Cook-Off

This past weekend, I attended the Salem United Methodist Chili Cook Off. Eleven different types of chili were entered into the contest, whose proceeds benefited The Sharing Center. Marci Morey's chili was declared the winner and she took home the "Golden Ladle" trophy! A wonderful time was had by all, for a good cause.

Rep. Kerkman and her mother, Marge Starzyk, enjoy chili together at the event

 Tax Refund Information

Tax season is gearing up a everyone is making sure they're prepared for the April 17th, 2012 deadline for filing 2011 income taxes. Taxes can be confusing, but the Wisconsin Department of Revenue (DOR) provides a wealth of information on its website to help answer some of your questions. Many people have questions about tax refunds and when they will be available. Once you have filed your tax return, you may check on the status of your refund anytime online. I encourage you to take advantage of these online resources to make sure you're ready for tax day.

If you are interested in tracking the progress of legislation introduced this session, please visit http://legis.wisconsin.gov/ and click on the Notification Service link found on the homepage.