January 9

The Speaker’s Task Force on Alzheimer’s and Dementia is introducing ten, bipartisan bills to improve the care of those suffering from these diseases by providing community-based resources and education. Alzheimer’s is the 6th leading cause of death in America and the only one in the top ten that can’t be prevented, treated or cured, according to the Alzheimer’s Association.

“This is a serious long-term problem and we need some real solutions to help the growing number of Wisconsinites and their families coping with Alzheimer’s and dementia,” said Task Force Chair Rep. Mike Rohrkaste (R-Neenah). “This legislative package is hopefully just the beginning of our efforts to ensure quality care while keeping costs under control.”

The Wisconsin Cares legislative package includes the following policy initiatives:
• Investing $1 million in respite care
• Expanding the number of dementia care specialists
• Educating caregivers and employers about Alzheimer’s and dementia
• Increasing dementia training for mobile crisis teams

The legislation was developed using the input from experts, caregivers, state officials and community members, many of who attended the six bipartisan task force hearings held around the state.

“It’s important to recognize that Alzheimer’s and dementia already affect so many in Wisconsin and their reach is only expected to grow in the years ahead,” said Task Force Vice-Chair Rep. Dianne Hesselbein (D-Middleton). “The bills we are introducing today take important steps to provide for those suffering from these terrible ailments and those who provide for their care.”

These are the first recommendations from lawmakers and more policy initiatives may follow before the task force completes its work. The bills are being released for co-sponsors later today and committee hearings are anticipated within the week.

“These bipartisan proposals are the result of many months of study as we traveled around the state for tours and public hearings,” said Rep. Czaja, who serves as a member of the task force. “We heard valuable testimony from experts in the field, healthcare workers, and especially from the families of loved ones affected by these diseases.”

For more information on the Task Force on Alzheimer’s and Dementia, go to: http://legis.wisconsin.gov/2015/committees/assembly/ad/

State of the State Recap

I am glad to hear the Governor’s optimistic view for the coming year, and we are looking forward to a positive and productive spring session. Our state unemployment rate is at a 14-year low and we are focused on ways to build a stronger workforce, including new initiatives to help address college affordability and student debt. We’ve also partnered on bipartisan efforts for mental health funding along with increased supports for those dealing with Alzheimer’s or dementia-related illness. These are central issues that make a real difference in the lives of families and taxpayers in northern Wisconsin, and I am looking forward to the work ahead.

Snowmobile Trail Conditions

Snow conditions continue to vary widely across the state. As an avid snowmobiler, I keep hoping for more snow! Here are online resources to use in planning your next ride:

WI Department of Tourism collects snowfall amounts and trail data from all 72 counties: http://www.travelwisconsin.com/snowreport/snowmobile

Northern Wisconsin trail reports and conditions: http://www.northwoodswisconsin.com/snowmobiling.htm

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