Hello Everyone!

I hope you are all doing well and staying warm!

There has been a lot happening since the last time I sent an update.  This will be a good opportunity to share some new information on that and fill you in on what's been going on.

On Monday, Governor Walker signed another bill I authored into law so in this E-Update I will be talking about that. As the spring legislative session comes to an end, I am still working to get more of my bills to the Governor's desk for his signature. I will continue to keep you updated on that.

Senate Bill 466 Signed into Law!

On Tuesday, Governor Walker signed into law Senate Bill 466 (SB466), authored by Senator Sheila Harsdorf (R - River Falls) and myself. The bill passed the Senate on a voice vote and was concurred by the Assembly on a voice vote. It is Act 169.

This legislation allows a library to report to a collection agency or, under some circumstances, a law enforcement agency, information about delinquent accounts of any individual who borrows or uses the library’s documents, materials, resources, or services. It restricts the information that can be shared to only the patron’s name, contact information, amount owed, and number and types of unreturned materials. Under the bill, a patron must owe at least $50 in combined fines and materials for the library to involve a collection agency.

Recovering delinquent fines and materials is important because libraries are supported through tax dollars so the financial loss of unreturned library materials and unpaid fines ultimately falls on taxpayers and other library users.

Prior to Act 169, the privacy of library patrons’ personal information was protected, prohibiting libraries from sharing information about accounts with third parties except under very specific circumstances including a court order, interlibrary loans, and parents of minors. Due to those privacy protections, libraries had no means by which to collect from those who are abusing their borrowing privileges.

"This isn't about nickel and dime fines for items that are returned late," said Wisconsin Library Association Executive Director Plumer Lovelace. "This is a serious issue. More than three million dollars' worth of taxpayer-owned library materials are simply not being returned to our public libraries each year, despite months of repeat notices and calls from library staff. Statewide, libraries are losing about 5% of their annual materials purchasing budget."

Wisconsin Library Champion Award

Last month, I was recognized by the Wisconsin Libraries Association (WLA) as one of their Library Champions.

The plaque presented to me in the picture says, "Wisconsin Library Association recognizing Representative Nancy VanderMeer as a Wisconsin Library Champion with appreciation for supporting efficient and equitable access to opportunity for all Wisconsin resident."

What's Happening in Madison...

Wisconsin Civil Air Patrol Cadets, Jacob Erdman of Sparta and Andrew Pfaff of Holmen, stopped in this week to discuss the mission of the patrol which is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year. Their mission statement is "Supporting America's communities with emergency response, diverse aviation and ground services, youth development and promotion of air, cyber, and space power." Thanks to the Civil Air Patrol for their service!

It's always great to visit with our technical school student government representatives. Mid State Technical College and Western Technical College representatives came by to highlight the educational accomplishments and options at their colleges. Wisconsin's technical college system has over 326,000 students and nearly 9 out of every 10 graduates live and work in Wisconsin. Pictured with me are Paul Reeck and Dylan Suchla, both student government representatives from Western Technical College.

A very impressive group of Wisconsin's Family, Career, and Community Leaders paid a visit to our office recently. These high school and college students represent Future Farmers of America, Future Business Leaders of America, and DECA. Several members represented Nekoosa, Sparta, and Tomah - all in the 70th district!

 Around the District

  Last week, I attended the Monroe County Economic Development Conference. Over 300 people were in attendance for the conference focusing on workforce, transportation, broadband, marketing, and other areas business interest. There were also 40 local businesses and organizations participating. The picture featured here was taken during a presentation on Transportation Infrastructure and Future Solutions focused on improvement efforts, future funding, and the effects on business.

Last week, I participated in celebrating National FFA Week at Tomah High School during the group's pancake supper. FFA members Cody Hall and Kayla Stott, my nephew and niece, helped with serving. It was nice opportunity to catch up with other FFA members as they look forward to spring activities and raising their show animals for the coming season.

Sincerely,