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2023

11/20/2023
Wirch Statement regarding neo-Nazi rally in Madison MADISON---Senator Bob Wirch released the following statement today regarding a neo-Nazi demonstration at the State Capitol on Saturday.
9/20/2023
Republicans Put Immediate End to Special Session, Leaving Child Care Providers and Working Families in the Lurch “Well, here we are again. Another special session on an issue important to the people of Wisconsin, another roadblock by the Republican majority. We are on the clock here. Child Care Counts funding runs out at the end of this year. Providers and advocates have been warning us for months that...
9/15/2023
News You Can Use: September 15 Rosh Hashanah is one of Judaism’s holiest days. Meaning “head of the year” or “first of the year”, Rosh Hashanah is a celebration of the Jewish New Year. It commemorates the creation of the world and marks the beginning of the Days of Awe, a 10 day period of introspection and repentance that...
9/8/2023
News You Can Use: September 8 September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. Although mental health and suicide prevention are important topics year-round, Suicide Prevention Awareness Month provides a dedicated time for people, organizations and communities to join their voices and share that there is help out there and...
8/25/2023
News You Can Use: August 25 On this day in 1916, the National Park Service was created, making today its 107th birthday. On that day, President Woodrow Wilson signed into law the National Park Services Organic Act, which created the NPS, which it called “a new federal bureau in the Department of the Interior responsible...
8/21/2023
Wirch, Ohnstad, McGuire React to Parkside Budget Shortfall Kenosha – Today, the University of Wisconsin – Parkside announced it is considering furloughs of all staff and other measures to address a $5.3 million structural deficit. Sen. Bob Wirch (D-Somers) and Reps. Tod Ohnstad (D-Kenosha) and Tip McGuire (D-Kenosha) issued the following response...
8/11/2023
News You Can Use: August 11 August is National Black Business Month, a time to show recognition of and appreciation for local Black-owned businesses. Did you know that Black business ownership is up almost 30% compared to pre-pandemic levels? What’s more, Black women are currently starting businesses as a higher rate than...
8/8/2023
Wirch Supports Evers’s Special Session on Child Care, Workforce Challenges “I am pleased that the Governor recognizes the urgent nature of these workforce issues, particularly the growing child care crisis. With a record surplus, we had a chance to address these needs in the budget. Unfortunately, the Republican majority rejected a number of commonsense proposals...
8/4/2023
News You Can Use: August 4 Can you even imagine a world in which Medicare and Medicaid didn’t exist? That was the case until July 30, 1965. On that day, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Medicare and Medicaid Act into law, establishing the two programs. Debate over the two programs actually began two decades earlier...
7/28/2023
News You Can Use: July 28 They say that education is the great equalizer, and public schools make that possible. They are available to everyone and serve as the cornerstones of our communities. However, efforts are underway nationwide to undermine our public schools, shifting taxpayer money to private schools and...
7/21/2023
News You Can Use: July 21 In every issue, I highlight a locally-owned, independent business in the 22nd Senate District. For many years, I have advocated for patronizing these types of businesses whenever possible. Well, the entire month of July is dedicated to awareness and recognition of the importance of independent...
7/14/2023
News You Can Use: July 14 Glioblastoma is an aggressive form of brain cancer best known as the cancer that took the lives of Ted Kennedy, John McCain and then-Vice President Biden’s son, Beau. Glioblastoma is the most common and most fatal primary brain tumor in adults. Almost 15,000 Americans are diagnosed with...
7/7/2023
News You Can Use: July 7 With July 4 in the rearview mirror, we are now in the “Dog Days of Summer”. You’ve probably heard the phrase but don’t know what is came from. The term “Dog Days” traditionally refers to a period of particularly hot and humid weather during July and August. The ancient Greeks and Romans believed...
6/28/2023
Wirch Statement on 2023 Budget Passage “This has been one of the more frustrating and disappointing budgets in a long time. I was hopeful and optimistic that, with a $7 billion surplus, we could come together across the aisle to do some big things that would really make a difference in peoples’ lives. As usual with this Republican...
6/23/2023
News You Can Use: June 23 Summer has officially begun; both the calendar and the weather tell us so. June 21 of each year is known as the summer solstice and marks astronomical start of summer in the northern hemisphere. It’s also the day of the year with the longest period of sunlight. We’ve been experiencing...
6/9/2023
News You Can Use: June 9 The American and world music scenes have been shaped and influenced by Black artists like Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, Dizzy Gillespie, Prince, Marvin Gaye, Tina Turner, Jimi Hendrix, BB King, Beyoncé and far too many more to count. Because of this impact, in 1979 President Jimmy Carter...
6/8/2023
Prescription Drug Bill Has Right Intentions but Takes Wrong Way Getting There Madison – Sen. Bob Wirch (D-Somers) released the following statement today on a flawed bill (Senate Bill 263) to allow SeniorCare participants to receive 100 days’ worth of prescription medications at a time...
6/2/2023
News You Can Use: June 2 “D-Day”, the name given to Allied invasion of the beaches at Normandy in northwest France during World War II, took place on June 6, 1944. It was a massive operation, involving more than 160,000 troops from about a dozen countries. At the time, France was occupied by Nazi Germany, and if the...
5/19/2023
News You Can Use: May 19 In 1962, President John F. Kennedy proclaimed May 15 as National Peace Officers Memorial Day. The commemoration pays tribute to law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others. We should also remember the families of peace officers...
5/12/2023
Wirch Statement on Killing of St. Croix County Deputy Kaitie Leising “My thoughts are with the family, friends and co-workers of Deputy Leising.  This was a senseless act of violence committed against a dedicated public servant, doing her job to keep her community safe....
5/5/2023
News You Can Use: May 5 May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and the first full week of May (May 7-13) is Children’s Mental Health Week. These are particularly important this year, as Governor Evers has declared 2023 the Year of Mental Health. His budget proposal contains a number of provisions aimed at improving...
4/28/2023
News You Can Use: April 28 In the U.S., Arbor Day is celebrated on the last Friday in April. It is marked by the planting of trees and emphasizes caring for them as a way to sustainably protect the planet’s resources. People often dedicate trees to loved ones. The ecological importance of trees can’t be overstated, and the...
4/21/2023
News You Can Use: April 21 The 5th Annual Parkside Day is being held on Wednesday, April 26. Students, alumni, staff and faculty and other community members are invited to participate in service and celebration, with a range of activities taking place during the week of April 23. Parkside Day is held to celebrate Parkside...
4/18/2023
Wirch Angered by GOP Obstruction of Major Conservation Project Sen. Bob Wirch (D-Somers) is disgruntled and disappointed today after the Republican majority on the Legislature’s Joint Finance Committee voted to deny Knowles-Nelson Stewardship funding for the Pelican River Forest project in northern Wisconsin. The project has been called the largest land...
4/18/2023
Wirch Statement on Holocaust Remembrance Day Kenosha – Sen. Bob Wirch (D-Somers) issued the following statement in recognition of Holocaust Remembrance Day...
4/14/2023
News You Can Use: April 14 A few short weeks ago, we recognized Cesar Chavez Day for all of his efforts on behalf of the civil rights and labor movements. Today we honor his contemporary and friend, Dolores Huerta. Maybe less well known but certainly no less important, Huerta has been a powerhouse for social justice...
3/31/2023
News You Can Use: March 31 Cesar Chavez is a hero of the labor and civil rights movements. Born into poverty and raised by migrant workers, Chavez dedicated his life to improving conditions for workers around the country. In co-founding the United Farm Workers of America with Dolores Huerta, he brought national attention...
3/24/2023
News You Can Use: March 24 Spring has sprung, and we’ve had the weather to prove it. A mix of warmer temperatures and rain these last few days (although we might be in for some wintry weather this weekend). That means that green grass, brightly colored flowers, and leafy trees are just around the corner. ...
3/17/2023
News You Can Use: March 17 Happy St. Patrick’s Day to all my Irish friends. In the United States, modern St. Patrick’s Day celebrations are characterized by green clothes, green beer and parades. However, the recognition actually dates back to 1631 when the Catholic Church established a Feast Day honoring St. Patrick...
3/10/2023
News You Can Use: March 10 It’s that time again. This weekend, we will lose an hour of sleep as we turn our clocks forward at 2 am on Sunday, March 12. There have been efforts in recent years to do away with the twice yearly time changes. A bill known as the Sunshine Protection Act was passed unanimously last year by the...
3/3/2023
News You Can Use: March 3 March 1 was the start of Women’s History Month. This observance is meant to celebrate the contributions women have made to the United States and to recognize the specific achievements women have made over the course of American history in countless fields. From Susan B. Anthony to Kamala Harris...
2/24/2023
News You Can Use: February 24 Next week is National Public Schools Week. This is an annual observance to recognize the wonderful things happening in our neighborhood schools and to honor the educators who work so tirelessly to cultivate a love of learning in our children. I want to send a big “Thank you” to everyone out...
2/22/2023
Wirch Announces Bill Restoring Bargaining over Health Care for Public Safety Workers Sen. Bob Wirch (D-Somers) has co-authored legislation with Sen. Van Wanggaard (R-Racine) that would restore the right of public safety to employees to bargain over their health care coverage. The law known as “Act 10” that was enacted in 2011 under former Governor Scott Walker stripped collective...
2/10/2023
News You Can Use: February 10 On February 12, 1909 – the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth – a group that included Black leaders like W.E.B. DuBois and Ida B. Wells announced the formation of a new organization. It was to be called the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and would...
2/3/2023
News You Can Use: February 3 February is American Heart Month, and February 3 is designated as National Wear Red Day to raise awareness of heart disease and stroke, particularly in women. This week, I joined a number my colleagues and legislative staff in a picture to show support for the American Heart Association and to...
1/27/2023
News You Can Use: January 27 January 27 marks the 78th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest Nazi death camp. Every year, the world recognizes January 27 as International Holocaust Remembrance Day in honor of the millions of Jewish men, women and children and members of other targeted groups...
1/20/2023
News You Can Use: January 20 Okay, now usually in this space I recognize some important observance or event. This week is a little different. Today, January 20, is recognized a National Cheese Lover’s Day. This is certainly less serious, somber or historic as some of the other observances, but being in Wisconsin, it’s...
1/13/2023
News You Can Use: January 13 The annual observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day takes place this year on Monday, January 16. It is a time that we celebrate, commemorate and honor the life, legacy and impact of Dr. King. This year, 2023, also marks the 60th anniversary of the famous, “I Have a Dream” speech. Dr. King’s...
1/9/2023
State Senator Bob Wirch to Hold Office Hours/Listening Session (1) Senator Bob Wirch (D-Somers) will once again be holding office hours to hear from the public on important state issues on Saturday, January 14, 2023 from 1-2 pm at Northside Library, Activity Room A, 1500 27th Ave., Kenosha.
1/6/2023
News You Can Use: January 6 I think we say this every year, but can you believe it is 2023? I’m feeling excited and hopeful for the year ahead. The days are getting longer, and warmer weather is on its way. Some big things have already happened in the new year, as you can read about further down my e-update.

2022

12/20/2022
Wirch Announces 2023 Session Committee Assignments “I’m pleased and excited to be joining these important committees. I’m happy to continue my advocacy for workers’ and veterans’ rights, natural resources and sportsman’s issues in the upcoming session. I look forward to tackling homelessness prevention and mitigation on the Housing Committee, and...
12/16/2022
News You Can Use: December 16 Chanukah, the Jewish faith’s eight-day “festival of lights” begins this Sunday, December 18, and ends on Monday, December 26. The Hebrew word “Chanukah” (also spelled “Hanukkah” or some variation) means “dedication”; the festival is given this name as it celebrates the rededication of the Holy...
12/2/2022
News You Can Use: December 2 Each year on December 7, we honor and remember the 2,403 U.S. service members and civilians who were killed and the 1,178 injured during the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor. On August 23, 1994, Congress designated December 7 as National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. Each year, events are held at...
11/30/2022
State Senator Bob Wirch to Hold Office Hours/Listening Session Senator Bob Wirch (D-Somers) will once again be holding office hours to hear from the public on important state issues on Saturday, December 3 from 1 to 3 pm: Northside Library, Small Conference Room, 1500 27th Ave., Kenosha.
11/25/2022
News You Can Use: November 25 We all know that the day after Thanksgiving is a monster shopping day known as “Black Friday”. The big chain stores traditionally offer big discounts to get people in the doors to do their holiday shopping. In recent years, the Saturday after Thanksgiving has been adopted as “Small Business...
11/18/2022
News You Can Use: November 18 This week marked the annual National Clean out Your Refrigerator Day. Now, it sounds silly, but the observance actually serves a purpose – to remind and encourage families to remove unwanted items from their refrigerators in preparation for the upcoming holiday season. Keeping a clean, tidy...
11/11/2022
News You Can Use: November 11 November 11 is recognized as Veterans Day here in the United States. The national holiday has a unique and interesting history. World War I officially ended at 11 am on November 11, 1918 (the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month). As a result, November 11 became known as...
11/8/2022
Public Service Commission Extends Comment Period on WE Energies Rate Increases Following a request from Senators Bob Wirch (D-Somers) and Tim Carpenter (D-Milwaukee), the state Public Service Commission (PSC) has agreed to extend the public comment period on the proposed WE Energies electric customer rate increase through Monday, November 14, 2022...
11/4/2022
News You Can Use: November 4 November is National Adoption Month. It provides a chance for all – individuals, families, businesses, organizations, communities, states and the government – to celebrate adoption. Adoptive families come in all forms and configurations; each is unique and special. Every year, there are more...
11/3/2022
Wirch Questions WE Energies’ Proposed Rate Hike Kenosha – State Senator Bob Wirch (D-Somers) is strongly denouncing a proposed double-digit rate increase for WE Energies’ residential customers. The proposal is currently before the state’s Public Service Commission, which is now accepting public comment before issuing a decision on...
10/28/2022
News You Can Use: October 28 It is easy to take for granted that first responders – police officers, fire fighters, EMTs – will be there when we need them. However, these are men and women with families and lives of their own who have dedicated themselves to serving others, and it’s important that we reflect on their...
10/26/2022
NEW REPORT SAYS RISK TO STATE FROM APPROVING KENOSHA CASINO SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCED Wisconsin’s potential liability to the Forest County Potawatomi Community (FCPC) if a Kenosha casino project is opened would be significantly reduced because of a gaming compact amendment approved by then Gov. Scott Walker in 2018, according to a new analysis prepared by the Legislative Reference...
10/24/2022
News You Can Use: October 24 National Make a Difference Day is dedicated to helping others through community service and volunteerism. It is held on the fourth Saturday of October, which this year falls on October 22. On this day, millions of people throughout the world unite in the common mission to improve the lives...
10/14/2022
News You Can Use: October 14 Each year, October 15 is recognized as White Cane Safety and Awareness Day. White Cane laws require drivers to stop for pedestrians with vision loss and have been on the books since the 1930s. White Cane Safety Day was created in 1964 by President Lyndon Johnson with the goal of educating the...
10/7/2022
News You Can Use: October 7, Yom Kippur, which was observed this week, is considered the holiest and most important day of the year for people of the Jewish faith. Yom Kippur means “Day of Atonement” and marks the culmination of the 10 Days of Awe, a period of introspection and repentance that follows Rosh Hashanah, the...
9/30/2022
News You Can Use: September 30 Each year, millions of Americans face the reality of living with a mental health condition. However, mental illness affects everyone directly or indirectly through family, friends and coworkers. That is why each year, during the first week of October, participants across the country raise...
9/23/2022
News You Can Use: September 23 Autumn is here. Not only was September 22 the first official day of the fall season, but the temperatures took a turn toward more fall-like weather, as well. There are so many things to love about fall – the beautiful colors of the changing leaves; football season; the end of daylight savings...
9/22/2022
GOP Can No Longer Claim to Be the Party of Small Government and Local Control One of the bedrock principles of governance in Wisconsin has always been “local control”. In fact, local control is enshrined in Article XI of our state constitution: “Cities and villages organized pursuant to state law may determine their local affairs and government…” For many decades...
9/16/2022
News You Can Use: September 16 Currently, the U.S. Department of Defense classifies 81,500 American service members as officially “missing in action”. The third Friday in September is designated as National POW/MIA Recognition Day, which is today. The designation began in 1979 through an act of Congress at the urging of the...
9/15/2022
Wirch: GOP Should Honor MIA Service Members and Their Families by Funding MIA Recovery Project Madison- Senator Bob Wirch (D-Somers) is honoring National POW/MIA Recognition Day, a time to remember those service members who have never come home from the battlefield and pay tribute to the sacrifices they and their families have made. At the same time, Wirch is taking Wisconsin Republicans...
9/9/2022
News You Can Use: September 9 It is hard to believe that twenty-one years have passed since one of the darkest days in our country’s history. None of us who were alive that day will ever forget where we were when we first heard the news or saw it on TV. Following the events of that day, the country was united in a way that...
9/2/2022
News You Can Use: September 2 Suicide is an uncomfortable topic to discuss but one that should be discussed openly and honestly. In an effort to help raise awareness and open dialogue, September is recognized as National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month...
8/26/2022
News You Can Use: August 26 “The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of sex. Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation.” That is text from the 19th amendment...
8/19/2022
News You Can Use: August 19 August 19 marks World Humanitarian Day (WHD), a time to recognize aid workers who have sacrificed their own lives to help people affected by global crises. Since the deaths of 22 United Nations and relief agency staff in a Baghdad bombing 19 years ago, each year we honor the brave men and women...
8/12/2022
News You Can Use: August 12 We all lead busy, hectic lives. There is so much going on all of the time, we need to take a step back and remember to relax once in a while. That’s the message behind National Relaxation Day, which is recognized annually on August 15. The day gives us a reminder to unwind and focus on your...
8/5/2022
News You Can Use: August 5 August is National Black Business Month. The concept started in 2004 in order to bring attention to the needs of the more than two million Black-owned businesses in this country. Black-owned businesses contribute about $165 billion in revenue and more than 1 million jobs to the American economy...
7/29/2022
News You Can Use: July 29 Lung cancer continues to be the leading cause of death in cancer patients. To help raise awareness of the causes and prevention methods of this disease, August 1st has been designated as World Lung Cancer Day. Health organizations urge citizens to be aware of the risk factors associated with lung...
7/22/2022
News You Can Use: July 22 Aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart was born on July 24, 1897; July 24 is now recognized as National Amelia Earhart Day to honor her achievements. While she is probably best remembered for her mysterious disappearance during a flight around the world, Earhart was a true trailblazer. In 1932, she...
7/15/2022
News You Can Use: July 15 In 2009, the United Nations General Assembly declared July 18, the birthday of Nelson Mandela, as International Nelson Mandela Day, with the theme “Take action; inspire change”. In response, Mandela called on the citizens of the world to honor him by helping their communities. In 2022, the Nelson...
7/1/2022
News You Can Use: July 1 Happy Independence Day! This year, recent events have reminded us of how precious and fragile our democracy is. As they say, democracy is not a spectator sport. It is more important now than ever that we have an active, engaged citizenry. That being said, have a safe and happy 4th with your...
6/24/2022
Wirch Statement on Supreme Court Ruling Overturning Roe v Wade (Madison) – “This is a sad day for women’s rights and women’s health care. This radically right-wing  Supreme Court has chosen to throw out fifty years of precedent and settled law. This ruling creates a barrier between women and access to important, necessary health care...
6/20/2022
Wirch Thanks Evers for New Investment in Racine Public Safety (Madison) – Sen. Bob Wirch (D-Kenosha) is expressing gratitude toward Governor Tony Evers after the Governor awarded the City of Racine $800,000 in funding for public safety initiatives. Additionally, Governor Evers has joined U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin in requesting immediate assistance from...
6/17/2022
News You Can Use: June 17 June 19, or Juneteenth, is an important day of remembrance and celebration in the history of civil rights. It marks the day – June 19, 1865 – that the last slaves in the South (Galveston, Texas, to be specific) learned that the Civil War had ended and that they were free. This year marks the...
6/10/2022
News You Can Use: June 10 World Blood Donor Day is an annual event held to acknowledge and thank voluntary blood donors and to encourage new donors by showing how blood donations change and save lives. World Blood Donor Day has been given the slogan, “Share Life, Give Blood”. One particular aim of the day is to encourage...
6/3/2022
News You Can Use: June 3, 2022 June 6, 1944, was a decisive date in World War II and world history. Codenamed Operation Overlord, latter known as the Battle of Normandy, began on that day, which came to be known as D-Day. Some 156,000 American, British, and Canadian troops landed on five beaches along a 50-mile stretch of...
5/20/2022
News You Can Use: May 20 National Armed Forces Day is held annually on the third Saturday of May, which falls on May 21 this year. This day pays tribute to men and women who serve across all six branches of the United States military. The first Armed Forces Day was announced by Secretary of Defense Louis Johnson following..
5/13/2022
News You Can Use: May 13 May is National Foster Care Month, a time to recognize the role we all can play in enhancing the lives of children and youth in the foster care system. The purpose of National Foster Care Month continues to evolve based on the needs of the time. Current activities focus on increasing visibility...
5/6/2022
Wirch Statement on Leaked Supreme Court Roe vs. Wade Decision (Madison) – “Sadly, Chief Justice Roberts has now confirmed the authenticity of the leaked opinion. While this ruling is not unexpected, it is alarming that the current, radically right wing makeup of the Supreme Court is ready and willing to throw out fifty years of precedent and settled law...
4/8/2022
News You Can Use: April 8 Governor Tony Evers has issued a proclamation in recognition of National Library Week, April 3-9, 2022. Evers called libraries “the hearts of cities, towns, schools, campuses and communities throughout Wisconsin,” and he couldn’t be more right. The theme for National Library Week 2022 is...
4/1/2022
News You Can Use: April 1 We’ve got a two-for-one this week. Today – April 1- is recognized around the world as April Fools’ Day, dating back hundreds of years and celebrated by many different cultures. While the exact origin is unknown, the tradition involves playing a trick or practical joke on a loved one, often ...
3/25/2022
News You Can Use: March 25 On March 25, National Medal of Honor Day, we honor the valor and courage of our most decorated servicemen and women. The President of the United States awards the National Medal of Honor to military members who have gone above and beyond the call of duty. There are actually three different...
3/21/2022
Wirch: Republicans Once Again Turn their Back on our Veterans Kenosha-Senator Bob Wirch (D-Somers) is calling out Republicans in the State Legislature for breaking a promise they made to Wisconsin veterans and the families of service members. After removing a provision in Governor Evers’ budget to fund the UW-Madison Missing in Action Recovery and...
3/18/2022
News You Can Use: March 18 St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated annually on March 17, the anniversary of his death in the fifth century. The Irish have observed this day as a religious holiday for more than 1,000 years. On St. Patrick’s Day, Irish families would traditionally attend church in the morning and celebrate in the...
3/16/2022
Wirch Thanks Governor, Calls Out Republican Hypocrisy on Public Safety “I applaud Governor Evers for his commitment to the safety of our communities. This latest investment shows that the Governor is dedicated to keeping our families safe. Sadly, I’m not surprised by the cynical, disingenuous response from my Republican colleagues. They talk a big game when...
3/11/2022
News You Can Use: March 11 In March 1987, President Ronald Reagan issued a public proclamation urging Americans to provide individuals with developmental disabilities “the encouragement and opportunities they need to lead productive lives and to achieve their full potential.” Since then, March of each year has been...
3/4/2022
News You Can Use: March 4 Every year, March is designated as Women’s History Month by presidential proclamation. This month is set aside to honor women’s contributions throughout American history. March was chosen to coincide with International Women’s Day, held annually on March 8. The theme for Women’s History Month...
3/3/2022
Wirch Thanks Governor Evers for Funding Kenosha Innovation Neighborhood, County Human Services Building “This is wonderful news. I want to thank Governor Evers for his commitment to Kenosha. This money moves both of these great, important local projects one step closer to reality, and I am very excited about the ripple effect this will have on economic and workforce development in our community...”
3/1/2022
Wirch Condemns Russian Aggression in Ukraine “The unprovoked aggression by Vladimir Putin and Russia against their Ukrainian neighbors is abhorrent and unacceptable..."
2/25/2022
News You Can Use: February 25 International Stand Up to Bullying Day encourages people to wear a pink shirt and take a public stance against bullying. Held on the last Friday in February, the day also shares how to recognize signs of bullying and find ways to prevent it. Bullying is defined as unwanted, aggressive behavior..
2/18/2022
News You Can Use: February 18 With an aging population, more and more seniors and other vulnerable citizens are becoming more and more dependent on family caregivers. Others require more care and reside in some type of assisted living facility, where professional caregivers provide assistance. Caregivers put their...
2/15/2022
Statement on State of the State Address “We have a $3.8 billion budget surplus, the largest “rainy day fund” in state history, a record-low unemployment rate and growing wages. The Governor has a lot to be proud of, despite constant opposition from the Republican majority in the Legislature. He’s been a good steward of our state’s...
2/11/2022
News You Can Use - February 11, 2022 One of the first things people think of when they hear “February” is Valentine’s Day, celebrated every year on February 14. If the American Heart Association has its way, February will also make you think about heart health. That’s why February is designated as American Heart Month. Heart disease..
2/4/2022
News You Can Use: February 4 Each February, we honor the achievements, contributions and sacrifices of African Americans who helped shape our nation with Black History Month. This year’s theme is Black Health and Wellness and recognizes the efforts and accomplishments of health care professionals and medical researchers and ...
2/2/2022
State Budget Surplus Provides Legislature Opportunity to Finally Address Homelessness “It’s been three and a half years since the bipartisan report provided a roadmap for addressing homelessness in our state, and Republicans have done virtually nothing. The news of a larger than expected budget surplus takes the financial excuses off the table. With time running out on this...
1/28/2022
News You Can Use: January 28 Members of our community recently suffered a tragic loss in the fire at the Saxony Manor apartment complex. Three people lost their lives, several others were injured, and numerous individuals and families were displaced. KAFASI is teaming with Mercy Housing to collect donations of cash or...
1/27/2022
Wirch, Colleagues Send Letter to AG Garland on Fraudulent Electors As a representative democracy, both the rule of law and the will of the people are necessary parts of our system of government. It is our belief that both of these principles were broken when ten men and women met in secret in the Wisconsin State Capitol on Monday, December 14, 2020, and completed..
1/21/2022
News You Can Use: January 21 January is National Blood Donor Month. It comes at an important time this year, as the American Red Cross is currently facing the worst blood shortage in over a decade. The dangerously low blood supplies have forced some hospitals to defer patients from major surgery, including organ transplants...
1/18/2022
Wirch Statement on Synagogue Hostage Crisis “I abhor violence in all situations, but it is particularly egregious when it is driven by hate and committed in a house of worship...
1/14/2022
News You Can Use: January 14 Monday, January 17, 2022, we will observe Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Day across the country. It’s not just a day of remembrance and reflection; it is a day of action and service. This year, the day has taken on even more importance, as the push for voting rights nationwide has been centered...
1/7/2022
News You Can Use: January 7 Yes, it’s true, we are now in 2022. I’m sure it’s as hard to believe for you as it is for me. I know all of us were hoping that we’d be able to put the fear, uncertainty, frustration, isolation, and disruption of the past couple of years behind us, but unfortunately, it looks like we are stuck...
1/6/2022
GOP Obstruction Sets Wisconsin Workers Further Behind as Twenty-Five Other States Raise Minimum Wage Hard working people in twenty states woke up on New Year's Day with a little more money in their paychecks; those in five other states and the District of Columbia will take home more at some other point in 2022. That’s because, whether through legislation or ballot measure, these twenty five...

2021

12/17/2021
News You Can Use: December 17 The holiday season is upon us. It’s no secret that we live in a turbulent world, where there is a lot of anger and fearfulness. My wish for all of you this holiday season is that you all find some levels of peace, joy, reflection, thankfulness and togetherness. May the New Year bring with it...
12/10/2021
News You Can Use: December 10 “Freedom means the supremacy of human rights everywhere.” That quote is from President Franklin D. Roosevelt, and it’s appropriate for today as we recognize International Human Rights Day. In 1948, the UN General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, a milestone document...
12/7/2021
Wirch Applauds Signing of Sexual Assault Kit Legislation I am excited and relieved that these bills have finally become law, and I want to thank Governor Evers for his quick action to sign them after unnecessary delay by Assembly Republicans. Survivors of sexual assault deserve to have confidence that their case is being handled properly and in a timely..
12/3/2021
News You Can Use: December 3 Each year on December 7, we honor and remember the 2,403 U.S. service members and civilians who were killed and the 1,178 injured during the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor. On August 23, 1994, Congress designated December 7 as National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. Each year, events are held at the...
11/19/2021
News You Can Use: November 19 Understandably, many of us are looking forward to Thanksgiving: the food, time with family, football, and the food, again. While this is a time to focus on all of the things we are thankful for, it also provides an opportunity to think about those less fortunate, who might not have big meals on...
11/12/2021
News You Can Use: November 12 Yesterday – Thursday, November 11 – was recognized as Veterans Day. Veterans Day is a time for us to pay our respects to those who have served. The holiday started as a day to reflect upon the heroism of those who died in service of our country and was originally called Armistice Day...
10/29/2021
News You Can Use: October 29 Stroke, also known as cerebrovascular accident, kills six million people worldwide every year and leaves another five million permanently disabled. Stroke is the second leading cause of death around the world and the leading cause of disability; one in four people will suffer from a stroke in...
10/28/2021
Politics Stalls Progress on Sexual Assault Kit Legislation In 2014, the state discovered a backlog of nearly 7,000 untested sexual assault kits, some dating back to the 1980s. Sexual assault survivors and advocates were rightly horrified, and law enforcement experts feared that the lack of DNA test results in these cases had let offenders off the hook...
10/15/2021
News You Can Use: October 15 Every year on the third Friday in October, National Mammography Day joins in National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This day, and month, serve as a reminder that the best defense is early detection. A mammogram can often detect a problem before there are any outward physical signs of illness...
10/8/2021
New You Can Use: October 8 By now we’ve all heard about various telephone scams that have bilked unsuspecting Americans out of millions of dollars, from the “Grandparent Scam” to various Medicare and Social Security scams, it seems like we are hearing about a new victim every other day. Well, scams and frauds committed...
9/24/2021
News You Can Use: Sept 24 An active and engaged electorate is key to the success and survival of our democracy. In every state other than North Dakota, registration is required in order to vote. Wisconsin is one of a few states that allows potential voters to register on Election Day. The fourth Tuesday of September has...
9/23/2021
School Board Meeting “Takeovers” Show Need to Return to Civility, Find Common Ground Following the second instance of a raucous, out of control Kenosha Unified/KUSD Board of Ed meeting, we all had one common thought: “This isn’t Kenosha. This isn’t who we are.” In Kenosha, we are proud of our neighborhood schools. We support their athletic programs, fundraisers, band concerts...
9/10/2021
News You Can Use: Sept. 10 For all of the recent effort put into destigmatizing and even normalizing discussions of mental health, the topic of suicide still carries a taboo. That’s why observances like World Suicide Prevention Day are so important. Every 40 seconds, someone loses their life to suicide; one in every 100...
8/27/2021
News You Can Use: August 27 While the Olympic Games themselves get the bulk of the attention every two years (for Summer and Winter games), something equally exciting and perhaps more inspiring is taking place right now in Tokyo. The (delayed) 2020 Paralympic Summer Games began on August 24 and run through September 5...
8/25/2021
Wirch Statement on Sen. Andre Jacque “My thoughts and prayers are with Sen. Andre Jacque and his entire family. We share a love of and devotion to family, and as a father, I am pulling for him and hoping for a full recovery. Covid knows no political, gender, age, race or geographical boundaries; it can strike anyone...
8/13/2021
News You Can Use: August 13 Financial literacy and awareness play important roles in the dreams many of us have – starting a family, owning a home, etc. Unfortunately, these are skills that aren’t emphasized enough for teens and young adults. That’s part of why we recognize August 14 as National Financial Awareness Day...
8/6/2021
News You Can Use: August 6 August is National Black Business Month, a time when we recognize Black-owned businesses across the country. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, there are approximately two million Black-owned businesses in the U.S., accounting for about 10% of all businesses, proportionally below the 13.1% Black..
8/2/2021
Wirch Rips Republican Motion to Ban Covid Prevention Measures on UW Campuses as Case Numbers Surge Madison – Sen. Bob Wirch (D-Somers) is assailing an action by Republicans in the State Legislature, led by Sen. Steve Nass (R-Whitewater), prohibiting UW System campuses from requiring Covid-19 preventative measures, including masking, Covid testing and vaccinations....
7/30/2021
News You Can Use: July 30 We all know how important public education is. Over the last decade, there has been a near-constant battle here in Wisconsin between Democrats, who believe we should fully fund our neighborhood schools and provide them will all of the resources they need to successfully educate our children, and...
7/23/2021
News You Can Use: July 23 What a week for the City of Milwaukee and the entire state of Wisconsin. After 50 years, the Milwaukee Bucks are once again NBA champions. Giannis, Khris Middleton and the entire team did the state proud, facing difficult situations but persevering to come out on top in the end...
7/16/2021
News You Can Use: July 16 We’re back. Post-budget passage, the news slowed down a bit, but I am here to update you on the Governor’s signing of the budget and what it means, as well as a few other stories of local and statewide interest. I hope you are all having a safe and healthy summer. July 11 through 17 has been...
7/2/2021
News You Can Use: July 2 Happy Independence Day. I was able to participate in the Kenosha Civic Veterans Parade last weekend, and it was so nice to be back among the people. I hope that you and your families are able to get out and celebrate a little bit this weekend, as well. The 4th of July is often recognized as...
6/30/2021
Sen. Bob Wirch: This Budget is a Wasted Opportunity “With the expected $4.4 billion in additional revenue we’ll have coming in, this budget provided a rare opportunity to address so many of our most serious needs and priorities. Unfortunately, my Republican colleagues chose instead to go the same old route – cutting taxes for the rich...
6/28/2021
Wirch, Ohnstad, McGuire Correct the Record: Republicans Distorted Evers’ Role in Response to 2020 Unrest Sen. Wirch (D-Somers) and Reps. Tod Ohnstad (D-Kenosha) and Tip McGuire (D-Kenosha) issued the following statement in response to Republicans’ (Senator Ron Johnson, Congressman Bryan Steil and former Lt. Gov. Rebecca Kleefisch) comments at the Lincoln Day Dinner in Kenosha, where they made false...
6/25/2021
News You Can Use: June 25 Earlier this week, we observed the summer solstice, also known as the longest day of the year because it is the day with the most daylight. This is also the first official day of summer. For many cultures around the world, the first day of summer is welcomed with celebrations and rituals that...
6/18/2021
News You Can Use: June 18 June 14-20, 2021, is recognized as International Men’s Health Week, and today is Wear Blue for Men’s Health Day. In the U.S., Men’s Health Week is celebrated as “a special awareness period recognized by Congress and the President”; it was initially created through the work of...
6/11/2021
News You Can Use: June 11 In addition to June being known as Dairy Month, it is also recognized nationally as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Awareness Month. While awareness of and sensitivity toward PTSD has definitely increased, it is still often misunderstood, and it often goes unreported and untreated...
6/10/2021
Wirch Issues Statement on Increase in Anti-Semitic and Anti-Asian Rhetoric and Violence “It’s the year 2021, and we are still experiencing and having to denounce this type of hate...
6/9/2021
Wirch Statement on Republican Rejection of Kenosha Innovation Center Funding “‘Disappointed’ isn’t a strong enough word for how I feel. The fact that mere hours after receiving the news of an increased $4.4 billion in revenue over the biennium, Republicans on the Committee voted to strip out this $10 million appropriation is hard to understand...
6/8/2021
Wirch Statement on New State Revenue Projection “This is great news. With this optimistic projection of $4.4 billion more in revenue than anticipated, the Republican majority has no excuse for not revisiting the Governor’s budget proposals for K-12 education and homelessness prevention programs...
5/28/2021
News You Can Use Memorial Day Edition The last Monday in May is reserved as a day to honor and remember those we have lost in military service to our country. Originally known as Decoration Day, the commemoration originated in the years following the U.S. Civil War and became an official U.S. holiday in 1971. Many Americans mark the...
5/21/2021
News You Can Use: May 21 Every year, the third Friday in May is recognized as National Endangered Species Day. This is a day to consider the dwindling populations of certain animals and consider what we can do to help. While environmental conservation first gained traction in the mid-1800s, the American Endangered Species..
5/14/2021
News You Can Use: May 14 In 1949, President Harry S. Truman created National Armed Forces Day as a day to recognize and celebrate members of all branches of the U.S. military. Originally, there had been single day celebrations for the Army, Navy and Air Force. The idea for one joint celebration stemmed from the...
5/7/2021
News You Can Use: May 7 May is recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month, and the theme this year is, “You are Not Alone”. The theme is more appropriate and important after the events of the last year than ever before. We’ve all felt lonely and isolated at times, and that can create new mental health problems and...
5/5/2021
Wirch Statement on SB267 Vote “As originally written, this bill would have provided much-needed relief to families hard hit by the pandemic.  My office has spoken with and assisted hundreds of people coping with Covid-related job loss over the last 14 months, so I understand the hardship and desperation it has caused...
4/30/2021
News You Can Use: April 30 Happy Arbor Day. Arbor Day “grew” out of an idea by Julius Sterling Morton, a former U.S. Agriculture Secretary and nature lover who had a passion for planting trees. The first Arbor Day took place on April 10, 1872, in Nebraska City, Nebraska; it’s estimated that about one million trees were...
4/23/2021
News You Can Use: April 23 While our society has come a long way in terms of acceptance of and rights for the LGBTQ community, we still have a long way to go. While younger generations tend to be far more open-minded, LGBTQ students are still frequent victims of bullying, whether physical or verbal. Any type of bullying...
4/16/2021
News You Can Use: April 16 You don’t have to be a baseball fan to recognize the huge impact that Jackie Robinson had on our country; his legacy transcends sports. He broke down racial barriers by becoming the first Black Major League Baseball player, enduring racist taunts, physical and verbal harassment and death threats...
4/9/2021
News You Can Use: April 9 This week is recognized as National Library Week, and I wanted to take the opportunity to honor the wonderful public libraries in Kenosha and Racine and our terrific, hardworking, dedicated library staff that help make libraries a special, and highly important, part of our communities...
4/2/2021
News You Can Use: April 2 Four Kenosha businesses, Shorewest Realtors, Country Financial, SCL CPA, and Skyprint are sponsoring a “virtual 5K” to benefit the Kenosha chapter of Habitat for Humanity. Between April 15 and April 30, participants, either individually or in small groups, can complete a 5k run anywhere/anytime...
3/26/2021
News You Can Use: March 26 April 1 is Opening Day for Major League Baseball. That brings with it a lot of excitement, even more so this year as a limited number of fans will be able to attend each game. This is great news not just for baseball fans, but symbolically for all of us who are anxious for a return to “normal”...
3/19/2021
News You Can Use: March 19 This is one of the best times of the year. The days are longer, the temperatures are a little warmer, and the sun is a little brighter. The birds are coming back, and we’re starting to see bits of green in the yard. This year, in addition to the improving weather, we’re feeling some relief with..
3/12/2021
News You Can Use: March 12 Beginning March 29, Covid-19 vaccinations will be available to individuals 16 and older with certain serious medical conditions that make them particularly vulnerable to the effects of Covid. These medical conditions include: moderate to severe asthma; cancer; COPD; heart conditions; obesity...
3/5/2021
News You Can Use: March 5 March is upon us, and contrary to the old proverb, “In like a lion, out like a lamb”, we’ve been treated to some beautiful weather. Along with some good news on the Covid front, it is just what the doctor ordered to lift our spirits. March is also Women’s History Month, a time to recognize and...
2/26/2021
News You Can Use: Feb 26 It’s well known that reading carries with it countless benefits, and it’s a skill that is applicable, and critical, throughout and in all areas of your life. March 1-5, 2021, will be recognized as “National Read Across America Week”, with March 2, in particular, highlighted because it is the...
2/22/2021
Wirch, Ohnstad and McGuire Issue Statement on Governor’s Funding of Innovation Center Project Madison - State Senator Bob Wirch (D-Somers) and Reps. Tod Ohnstad (D-Kenosha) and Tip McGuire (D-Kenosha) issued the following statement regarding the announcement by Governor Tony Evers of full funding for the proposed Innovation Center on the Chrysler Engine Plant site...
2/19/2021
News You Can Use: Feb. 19 People who provide care for our seniors and other vulnerable individuals are truly unsung heroes. The work is hard, the hours are long, and the pay is often low, for those who are paid at all. They may be family members caring for a loved one and not receiving a paycheck at all. In 2015, ...
2/16/2021
Statement on Governor’s Budget Address “One of the things we have learned through the Covid-19 pandemic is how great the divide between the “haves” and the “have nots” truly is. I’m happy to see Governor Evers using an expected surplus to address this..."
2/12/2021
News You Can Use: February 12 Happy Valentine’s Day to all of you. Between the ongoing pandemic and the frigid temperatures, we can all use a little love and kindness right now...
2/5/2021
News You Can Use: February 5 This week has been another reminder that it is still winter here in Wisconsin. I hope you are all staying warm in these frigid temperatures. Every year, the first Friday of February is recognized as “National Wear Red Day” to bring awareness to heart disease. ...
1/29/2021
New You Can Use: Jan 29 I hope you have all gotten shoveled out from the snowstorm that hit earlier this week. It’s winter in Wisconsin - you knew it had to happen sooner or later. With January coming to an end, brighter (and warmer) days are ahead. The end of January also means the beginning of Black History Month...
1/26/2021
Wirch Thanks Wisconsin National Guard for their Unprecedented Service “In the last twelve months, our National Guard members have been called to service in ways they never have before, and they’ve answered the call time and time again. ...
1/22/2021
News You Can Use: January 22 This week we witnessed one of the great traditions in our country, the peaceful transition of power from one Presidential administration to another. With the deep division and heated rhetoric we are currently experiencing, it was heartening to see leaders from both parties, including...
1/15/2021
Wirch Responds to Legislative Republicans’ Refusal of Unemployment System Special Session “I’m disappointed but not surprised.  For the first time in 13 years, we have a Governor who is serious about fixing this outdated 50 year old system.  Instead of actually doing something productive, Republicans offer non-solutions in an attempt to score cheap political points against the Governor..
1/12/2021
Statement on State of the State Address “The Governor had a real challenge tonight, as Covid continues to exacerbate existing problems and create new ones.  I think he struck the right tone, acknowledging the real issues before us while expressing optimism...
1/8/2021
News You Can Use: January 8 Welcome to my first e-newsletter of 2021. Not only are we in a new year, but earlier this week, the new legislative session began, as well. The first order of business should be Covid relief legislation, and there are several competing proposals being considered. ..
1/6/2021
Wirch Statement on Violence at U.S. Capitol “Violence anywhere, whether here in Kenosha or in Washington, D.C., is unacceptable and has no place in our political process...
1/5/2021
Wirch Calls for Peaceful Protest, Reform Ahead of DA’s Decision in Jacob Blake Shooting “Emotions are understandably running high as our community awaits the release of DA Gravely’s announcement. Whatever your view of the decision, I hope and pray that everyone will exercise their first amendment right to protest in a peaceful manner. Share your thoughts and make your voices heard...

2020

12/21/2020
Wirch Announces Committee Assignments “I’m very pleased to be joining these important committees. I’m happy to continue my advocacy for workers’ rights, natural resources and sportsmen’s issues in the upcoming session. I’ll be looking for areas of agreement in a very partisan Legislature,” Wirch said.
12/11/2020
News You Can Use: December 11 Chanukah, the Jewish faith’s eight-day “festival of lights” began yesterday, December 10, and runs through December 18 this year. The Hebrew word “Chanukah” (also spelled “Hanukkah” or some variation) means “dedication”...
12/7/2020
Wirch, Ohnstad and McGuire Issue Statement on Legislation to Clear Up Red Tape for Vaccine Distribution “It’s come to our attention that a flaw in federal regulations would make it difficult for Pfizer to distribute the Covid-19 vaccine from its storage location in Pleasant Prairie to other, neighboring states. This legislation is a clean fix to that problem. It’s something we should all be able...
12/4/2020
Wirch Calls Out Senate Republicans' Silence on Homelessness Legislation “With each day that passes, the chance to do the right thing decreases.  This holdup is inexcusable, and the silence and inaction by Senate Republicans actually speaks volumes about their priorities,” said Wirch.
12/4/2020
News You Can Use: December 4 December 7, 1941 - according to President Franklin D. Roosevelt, “a date which will live in infamy”. This day is a good time to reflect on the tremendous sacrifice that so many have made for our way of life.
11/20/2020
News You Can Use: November 20 Thanksgiving is here, and though this has been a difficult year, most of us have plenty to be thankful for. This year will be a little different. With Covid-19 spreading unchecked, the best decision is to stay at home and celebrate the holiday with only those in your immediate household...
11/20/2020
Wirch Applauds IKEA’s Racial Workplace Equality Grants “I want to thank IKEA for being a good corporate citizen and addressing a timely need. The Covid-19 pandemic has made more obvious than ever the inequities that exist in our state. These grants will fund skills training and education to begin reducing racial disparities in the workplace.”
11/13/2020
News You Can Use: November 13 Today is recognized as World Kindness Day. This has been a difficult year for everyone; I thought it was important to recognize this day during a time when we could all use a little more kindness in our lives. Covid again dominates the news, with a potential vaccine on the horizon providing hope..
11/11/2020
Statement in Recognition of Veterans Day “As a veteran of the Army Reserves, I find it important today - and everyday - to honor all of the men and women who have put on a uniform in service of our country...
11/10/2020
State GOP Seeks to Invalidate the Will of the People for Political Gain “Of course every vote should be counted. If President Trump wants a recount in Wisconsin, he’s allowed to request that under state law. However, there is no reason to think that a recount will change the outcome: Joe Biden won a majority of votes cast for President in Wisconsin.
11/6/2020
News You Can Use: November 6 The weather might not feel like it right now, but we are firmly entrenched in fall. Halloween and Daylight Saving Time are over; some votes are still being counted, but the elections are behind us; and the leaves are showing us their colors. Veterans Day approaches, and it’s a time to reflect...
10/23/2020
News You Can Use: October 23 On Saturday, October 24, the state Department of Justice, in coordination with the Department of Health Services, will hold a Prescription Drug Take Back Initiative throughout the state.
10/16/2020
News You Can Use: October 16 October is recognized as National Disability Employment Awareness Month. In a “normal” year, I enjoy taking part in the Take Your Legislator to Work Day, whereby I accompany a person with a disability to his or her place of work to see firsthand the contributions they make to our community and ...
10/9/2020
With No Plan of Their Own, GOP Looks to Handcuff Evers Options on Covid Pandemic “What is it going to take for the Republicans to stop their partisan, political games and get serious about Covid-19?..."
10/9/2020
News You Can Use: October 9 The first full week of October is recognized as Mental Illness Awareness Week. One in five American adults experience some form of mental illness, but many going through it feel all alone. This week is a time of education and community, and I felt it was important to acknowledge.
10/6/2020
Statement on Republican Court Challenge to Statewide Mask Order “This is just more politics to them. Speaker Vos, Senator Fitzgerald and their caucuses are trying to have it both ways. If they are so against the mask order, they have the power to bring us in for a vote on it. They won’t do that. With Wisconsin in the midst of a surge in Covid cases that...
10/2/2020
News You Can Use: October 2 Our state is nearing a danger zone when it comes to Covid-19 infections. While positive cases have been on the rise for several weeks, the number of hospitalizations and deaths has begun to surge, as well. Medical facilities are being stretched thin. Even in the face of this concerning news...
9/25/2020
New You Can Use: September 25 Area businesses have gotten a bit of good news, as the WEDC has approved $4 million in aid funds for rebuilding and repairs following the unrest of a few weeks ago, thanks in large part to the efforts of Governor Evers and Rep. Ohnstad.
9/23/2020
Wirch Applauds State Aid to Kenosha Businesses “This is great news. A thriving Kenosha is beneficial to the economy of the whole state, and this money will really help our businesses get back on their feet. I want to thank Governor Evers for making this money available. I also want to credit Rep. Ohnstad, who has been working tirelessly to...
8/31/2020
Republicans Turn a Blind Eye to Justice Reform “In a time of crisis, with the Kenosha community just beginning the long process of recovery and healing, this is more than just a failure of leadership by Sen. Fitzgerald and Speaker Vos. These are reasonable, common-sense reforms, and their refusal to even let us debate the issues is indefensible.
8/26/2020
Statement on Kenosha Violence “I am devastated by the events that have taken place in Kenosha. I was born and raised here, and I love my community and our people. This is not who we are...
8/24/2020
Wirch Issues Statement on Police Shooting in Kenosha “While we don’t yet know the full details, I am deeply alarmed by the shooting of Jacob Blake. Under state law, there will be an independent investigation by the Wisconsin Department of Justice...
8/17/2020
Republican Attacks on the Postal Service Threaten our American Way of Life You might have noticed that it has taken a little longer for mail to arrive at its destination recently. With all of the turbulence and turmoil going on, though, you might not know why it’s happening. There is a long history of Republican animosity toward the postal service, preferring private...
8/14/2020
Wirch Named 2019-2020 “Friend of Public Health” Senator Bob Wirch (D-Somers) has been named a “Friend of Public Health” by the Wisconsin Association of Local Health Departments and Boards (WALHDAB) and Wisconsin Public Health Association (WPHA) for his work to support public health priorities during the 2019-2020 legislative session.
7/30/2020
Wirch Issues Statement on Governor’s Mask Order Kenosha – State Senator Bob Wirch (D-Somers) issued the following statement regarding Governor Evers’s Executive Order requiring face masks in certain circumstances:
7/15/2020
Republicans Turn Their Back on First Responders During Pandemic As seen on the news day after day, Democrats and Republicans, at all levels of government, have very different views on any number of issues, from healthcare to education to jobs and the economy. However, one issue we’ve almost always been able to come together on is protecting those who have...
7/8/2020
Wirch Responds to Assembly Republicans’ Unemployment Band-Aid Proposal Kenosha – State Senator Bob Wirch (D-Somers) issued the following statement in response to Assembly Republicans temporary unemployment fix:
6/25/2020
Denying the Chance for Public Input, Republicans Reaffirm Support for “Conversion Therapy” During Pride Month Pride Month is a time for celebration of acceptance, self-expression and love. It’s also a time to recognize the progress that has been made for LGBTQ rights while acknowledging the work that remains. Nowhere was that last part more evident this month than during today’s meeting of the...
6/24/2020
Statement on Destruction and Violence at State Capitol "I fully support people’s First Amendment rights and their ability to peacefully protest. What we saw last night was not peaceful. When you cross over into destruction and violence, you have crossed a line...
6/16/2020
Statement on Supreme Court Affirmation of LGBTQ Workplace Protections "For so long now, many of us have known that discriminating against a person based on who they love, particularly in the workplace, was morally wrong. Now, during Pride Month, the U.S. Supreme Court has made clear that it is also legally wrong...
6/10/2020
“We’re All In” Small Business Grant Program Applications Open June 15 Beginning Monday, June 15, and running through Sunday, June 21, Wisconsin small businesses impacted by Covid-19 will be able to apply for grants, ranging from $2,500 to $30,000 each, to assist with the costs of business interruption or for health and safety improvements, wages and salaries, rent...
6/8/2020
Statement Calling for Universal Use of Body Cameras by Law Enforcement “Recent events, including the killings of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor at the hands of law enforcement officers, reinforce the need for universal body camera usage. Today I am calling for state funding for body cameras and data storage necessary to maintain this information for...
5/29/2020
With Eviction Moratorium Over, Rental Assistance Grants Available for Covid-Impacted Renters The Covid-19 pandemic has impacted much more than people’s health. Business closures, both temporary and permanent, left many families struggling to make ends meet. For some renters, help is on the way. Governor Tony Evers recently announced creation of the Wisconsin Rental Assistance Program...
5/13/2020
Statement on Supreme Court Overturning Public Health Order “I am deeply disappointed that a narrow majority on the Supreme Court put ideology over public health and safety in this case...
4/28/2020
Wirch Recognizes Workers’ Memorial Day, Honors Frontline Workers Every year on April 28, International Workers’ Memorial Day is held to remember and honor workers killed, disabled or injured in the workplace. Senator Bob Wirch (D-Somers) issued the following statement in observance of the day...
4/28/2020
Constituents Services More Important Than Ever During Pandemic Serving my constituents is the most important part of my job as State Senator during the best of times. In difficult times like we are currently facing, that service becomes even more critical.
4/21/2020
Statement on Republican Challenge to Public Health and Safety Measures “This is a real low for Republicans, playing politics with people’s lives...
4/20/2020
Wirch Supports Public Health Protections and Business Flexibility in “Safer at Home” Extension “These are difficult times for everyone in our communities. I believe that Governor Evers and Secretary-Designee Palm are taking a smart but cautious approach to both preserve public health and safety and give businesses some increased flexibility...
4/17/2020
Sharing the Latest News You Can Use: COVID-19 Hello, neighbor. The news is constantly changing these days, and it can be hard to keep up. In this update, you will find a review of news items from the past week as well as news you can use for the week ahead. These are difficult times for all of us, but we will get through it together...
4/10/2020
In Case You Missed It (ICYMI) Hello, neighbor. The news is constantly changing these days, and it can be hard to keep up. In this update, you will find a review of news items from the past week as well as news you can use for the week ahead. I hope this is helpful. Stay safe and healthy.
4/9/2020
Wisconsin Workers Deserve Wages Earned when a Business Files for Bankruptcy Madison - It seems whenever Republicans have control of the Legislature, they aim to further tilt the playing field against Wisconsin’s workers. This isn’t a new phenomenon, either.
4/9/2020
How Seniors Can Weather the Coronavirus Storm Kenosha - It’s been widely reported that seniors are among the most vulnerable when it comes to COVID-19. Older people and those with underlying medical conditions are at increased risk of severe illness if infected with coronavirus, and worldwide, eight in ten deaths have been people 65 years of...
4/6/2020
Stores Offer Special Shopping Hours for Vulnerable Populations It is important that we all take the proper precautions during this time to reduce our risk of exposure to the COVID-19 virus. However, senior citizens and those with underlying health conditions and compromised immune systems are at extra risk. As a result, a number of store are offering special..
4/3/2020
Sharing the Latest News You Can Use Kenosha - Hello, neighbor. The news is constantly changing these days, and it can be hard to keep up. In this update, you will find a review of news items from the past week as well as news you can use for the week ahead. I hope this is helpful. Stay safe and healthy.
4/2/2020
Helping Small Businesses Survive Coronavirus Shutdowns In addition to the serious health concerns associated with the COVID-19 outbreak, the impact to our economy, particularly small businesses, will have long-lasting consequences. Employees and owners alike are struggling with how to keep their families and businesses afloat until some normalcy...
3/15/2020
Important Tips, Precautions and Resources for Dealing with COVID-19 With growing concern about the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) and mounting numbers of closings and cancellations, it is important that we all work together: to contain the virus, to protect our most vulnerable citizens, and to look out for each other.

2019

7/16/2019

2018

9/12/2018
WISCONSIN ROAD DETERIORATION ...What is simple and undeniable is the fact that our state faces a transportation funding crisis that’s been brewing for several years and continues to get worse.

2017

2/13/2017
Wirch Co-Sponsors Student Debt Relief Bill “This is a common-sense, state-level solution will alleviate some of the financial pressures faced by those with student loan debt. Student loan debt is a real drag on our economy; it prevents people from buying cars, buying homes, taking vacations, spending in our local shops,” said Wirch.
2/2/2017
Wirch Again Targets Wage Theft “With so many Wisconsin families living paycheck to paycheck, it is time we address this issue, the theft of hard-earned wages from our hard-working friends and neighbors. It’s a crime that affects all of us, as workers, as consumers, and as taxpayers, and this legislation is an important step forward,” Wirch said.
1/26/2017
In Light of New Info, Wirch Renews Calls for Suspension of Tax Credit for the Ultra-Rich “Fiscal Bureau’s memo showing that this tax credit will have cost $804 million more than projected by 2019 and Audit Bureau’s shocking report on the serious financial problems facing the transportation budget have just strengthened my belief that we need to at least suspend the Manufacturing and Ag Tax Credit for the next two years. That would provide more than $600 million in increased revenue that we critically need right now,” Wirch said.
1/17/2017
Wirch to Tackle Fraud Against Seniors “We hear about this all the time. Whether it’s the ‘Grandparent Scam’, which has become so prevalent, or fraudsters claiming to be from the IRS or Medicare, the news is full of stories where seniors were preyed on,” Wirch said.

2015

5/7/2015
Wirch Slams Republican Attack on Bray Center “Today’s action by the Finance Committee to single out the Bray Center, stripping them of vital funding for important programs to keep kids out of trouble, is politics at its worst

2014

12/4/2014
AT&T Announces $5,000 Innovation Award to Support Kenosha Chamber’s BEPP Program The goal of the program is to connect up to 100 Kenosha County 9th graders with institutions of higher learning and local manufacturing businesses to provide them with experiences and information as they think about education and career plans
11/20/2014
Outsourcing and Privatization at UW-Superior Continues a Troubling Trend Twenty-four union workers were laid off as a result, and most had been working at the school for ten years or more
11/14/2014
The Voters Have Spoken. It’s Time to Raise the Minimum Wage. While the recent election didn't go the way I and many others had hoped, there is one result that I was particularly happy to see. Voters across the state, and in fact across the country, spoke loud and clear that it is time to raise the minimum wage
8/18/2014
Wirch Accepts “Ice Bucket Challenge” with Donation to Fight ALS “...The Ice Bucket Challenge has brought greater awareness of the disease, and I am happy to make a donation to MDA of Southeastern Wisconsin to continue their work to find a cure,” Wirch said.
7/24/2014
Wirch Calls Out Walker, WEDC for Awards to Companies Outsourcing Jobs “WEDC is supposed to be providing these resources – taxpayer money – to help businesses creating jobs here in Wisconsin. Instead, it has rewarded companies who outsourced hundreds of Wisconsin workers’ jobs
4/24/2014
Wirch, Ohnstad to Author Legislation Curbing Use of Harmful Microbeads “These products with microbeads are fairly new to the market, but we have quickly seen the negative impact that they are having on out natural resources. There are millions of these things in Lake Michigan alone
4/16/2014
Two Wirch Bills Become Law “I am proud to author these two important pieces of legislation and even prouder to see them become law. My colleagues and I worked across the aisle to make that happen
4/1/2014
Wirch Bill Offering New Treatment for Seizures Passes Senate Today, the Wisconsin State Senate overwhelmingly approved legislation, authored by Senator Bob Wirch (D-Somers), that gives hope to Wisconsinites suffering from debilitating seizures
3/26/2014
Kenosha legislative delegation statement on special interest involvement on local school board races We are alarmed to see that a national organization with no ties to our community, Americans for Prosperity, funded by out of state billionaires with extreme views, has come into our community to try and influence our local school board elections
3/21/2014
Senator Wirch Urges Public to Sign Petition for Veterans “We need to send a message to Governor Walker that our veterans come before irresponsible corporations,” Wirch said
3/18/2014
Wirch Urges Republican Majority to Vote on Oral Chemotherapy Bill “Once again, the Republican majority is putting politics and corporate profits ahead of the good of their constituents. There is simply no good reason that this bill isn’t getting a vote in the Senate,” Wirch said

2013

9/5/2013
Wirch Applauds Bipartisan Support for Casino Project This project is important to the people of Kenosha and Racine, and this is clear by the bipartisan support that it has received
6/25/2013
Wirch Calls for Veto of Bail Bond Budget Provision “… The decision about whether an accused person is a public safety or flight risk and should go free needs to be left in the hands of judges, not some private business whose goal is to make a profit
4/10/2013
Wirch Co-Sponsors Independent Redistricting Plan “Redistricting should be fair and in the best interest of the people of Wisconsin, not in the best interest of the politicians... We must make redistricting about the voters and population shifts, and not political gain
4/9/2013
Wirch Recognizes Equal Pay Day It’s a time to recognize that, even though women in the workplace have made great strides, there is still a long way to go. Pay discrimination is still a very real problem that needs to be addressed