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State Senator Van Wanggaard's eNewsletter 2015
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Keeping the Public Safe From Dangerous Wild Animals 

 

(Click on the photo above to watch an interview from CBS 58 with more information) 
 
Recently, Milwaukee residents got a shock when a woman reported a lion roaming near her home on the northeast side. Unfortunately, last week's sighting is just one of many dangerous instances that have occurred in Wisconsin. In fact, law enforcement were recently called to a house in Kenosha where they eventually removed five rattlesnakes, a crocodile, two alligators, and a poisonous Gila monster. These events not only put citizens, law enforcement and emergency responders in danger, they also divert valuable time and resources from municipalities as they try to secure the animal.

Many of you may be surprised to learn that Wisconsin is one of only five states that does not have a state law regulating the private possession of dangerous wild animals, and I believe it is past time to put these protections in place. To help keep our communities safe, I am introducing a bill that would prohibit the private possession of dangerous exotic animals such as lions, tigers, polar bears, gorillas and alligators. Under the bill, certain vets, zoos, and other reasonable institutions are exempt from this prohibition. 

This common sense measure has received widespread support from many groups including Wisconsin Professional Police Association, League of Wisconsin Municipalities, Wisconsin Federated Human Societies and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. 
 

New Civics Test for High Schoolers 


 
Earlier this year, I authored legislation to require high school students to pass a civics test as a requirement of graduation. I am happy to say this measure was included in the Wisconsin state budget and was recently signed into law. Under the budget, the requirement will take effect beginning with the 2016-17 school year.

The provision seeks to ensure Wisconsin students understand our great nation by requiring they pass a civics test similar to a citizenship exam prior to graduation. Students would have to answer at least 60 out of 100 questions correctly on the test to receive a passing score. Students will be allowed to retake the test as many times as is needed until they answer 60 or more questions correctly.

I believe that you cannot become a productive member of society without knowing how America works. I am glad that we can now be sure that Wisconsin students start with a basic knowledge of our great country as they grow into the leaders of tomorrow.


Do you want to see how you would do on the civics test? You can test your US knowledge on this sample exam or try all 100 citizenship questions here.
 

In the District




My family and I had a wonderful time at the Racine County Fair last week. It was great seeing old friends and meeting new ones like Gabriella Salas who is pictured above with her cow, Anabella. Gabriella was one of the many bright young ladies and gentlemen who impressed the crowd with their hard work this year. 
Connect with Van:
www.SenatorWanggaard.com

608.266.1832

State Senator Van
Wanggaard
21st Senate District 

Wisconsin State Capitol 
P.O. Box 7882
Madison, Wisconsin 53707
 
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August 20, 6:30 - 8:30 pm






 
 
 
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