 This week, the State Senate and Assembly will be in session passing legislation addressing a number of issues caused by COVID-19.
I am pleased that the bill includes a number of provisions I previously authored with bi-partisan support, including suspension of the one week waiting period for unemployment, flexibility for local government meetings and deadlines, public safety support, and remote operations for the court system.
The legislation and a summary of all provisions in it can be found here.
 Citizens can have their voices heard on-line on a multitude of advisory questions regarding state conservation and sporting issues through the Conservation Congress.
Voting is open at the DNR website through Thursday, April 16th at 7:00 pm at this link.
 In order to limit the spread of infection in Wisconsin, K-12 schools have suspended in-person classes indefinitely. I understand the burden this puts on parents of young children, especially with how expensive or unavailable daycare can be. Teaching children at home isn't easy, so in order to make this time as beneficial for your children as possible, my staff has compiled the following list as a resource for you.
https://pbskids.org/
https://www.funbrain.com/
https://www.abcmouse.com/ (Free 30-day subscription)
http://www.discoverycentermuseum.org/whats-happening/playfullearning
COVID-19 has had a huge impact on unemployment and the workforce. My top priority right now is mitigating these effects, and ensuring as many of my constituents as possible are able to support their families.
There are resources available for those who have lost their jobs, and many new jobs available. To see jobs in the area, you can visit the Department of Workforce Development's website.
Unemployment benefits are available to anyone who is no longer working due to COVID-19. An executive order recently issued follows federal guidance in waiving work search requirements and ensuring claimants out of work due to COVID-19 are eligible for benefits. For more information on how to apply, visit the Department of Workforce Development's website.
I also have introduced legislation with strong bi-partisan support that suspends the one week waiting period for unemployment, retroactive to March 12. As mentioned above, that language has been included in a larger bill set to be voted on in the State Senate tomorrow, paving the way for quicker unemployment relief.
My office continues to be open during the COVID-19 outbreak, with limited staff in the office. The best way to contact me is via email Sen.Jacque@legis.wi.gov
If you're interested in learning more about what goes on day-to-day at the Capitol, follow me on Facebook. It's an opportunity to get near-daily updates that you don't see in my E-Updates.
If you missed an E-Update, I have them posted on my website.
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