My office was happy to host many organizations and constituents this week, including the Professional Firefighters Association, EMS workers, the Wisconsin Farmers Union, and the Wisconsin Dental Association. It is important to hear from organizations and constituents about their concerns and hopes for the future of Wisconsin. I am happy to have had the opportunity to meet and listen with these groups!
Jon Erpenbach State Senator, Wisconsin District 27
JFC Republicans continue to leave homeless Wisconsinites out in the cold
On Thursday, the Joint Committee on Finance (JFC) met for the first time this year. Unfortunately, Republicans once again neglected to take up funding to combat homelessness. Those funds are just some of the many requests that JFC Republicans have opted to delay, leaving state agencies and the people who depend on them in limbo.
The Joint Committee on Finance met for the first time this year on Thursday. During the meeting, after Democrats voted to fully fund state matching funds for Federal Arts Grants, Republicans opted to partially fund the program. Additionally, Democrats advocated to fully fund the Wisconsin Disaster Fund, but Republicans chose to ignore imminent future natural disasters and only partially funded the program.
While I am disappointed that those vital programs were not fully funded, there were some bi-partisan actions taken yesterday. For example, Grants for Tractor Rollover Protection, Rural Dentistry Scholarships, and Snowmobile Trail Funding passed through JFC with unanimous support.
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is hosting Free Fishing Weekend Jan. 18-19. Wisconsin's winter Free Fishing Weekend is a great time to discover the fun of ice fishing. Take advantage of this free opportunity to introduce family and friends to the sport.
Travel Wisconsin UPDATE: Bald Eagle Watching Days
Each year, dozens of eagles winter at Prairie du Sac to fish the open waters of the Wisconsin River. Enjoy Birds of Prey shows, an eagle release, guided bus tours, Native American legends, aerial antics, and family activities at this free, family-friendly event.
DATCP UPDATE: Apply for Buy Local, Buy Wisconsin Grants Through Feb. 28
Wisconsin farmers and businesses seeking to grow their local markets are encouraged to apply for 2020 Buy Local, Buy Wisconsin producer and processor grants. Proposals must be received by the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) by noon, February 28, 2020.
