This is the season of giving and I want to join so many of our friends and neighbors in thanking those who have given, sacrificed and accomplished so much this year. From the nurses and doctors and aides and all of our heroic health care workers, to the scientists – many right here at home – who have led testing, diagnosis, treatment and vaccine efforts – and to the first responders and National Guard volunteers and the people who have staffed and led our small businesses through unprecedented times: thank you.
Unfortunately, the season of giving has lasted far too long for Wisconsin taxpayers. Because of a long-stale and always short-sighted political talking point, you have been forced to send well over a billion dollars to other states because our GOP colleagues in the Legislature refuse to bring your dollars home by expanding BadgerCare. Facing a pandemic that has strained our health care system, left too many without insurance and will force tough choices in the budget ahead, we should first and foremost bring your tax dollars home.
To all the men and women who have toiled and persevered over this year like no other: thank you. To our GOP colleagues in the Legislature: it’s time we live up to the service and sacrifice of our fellow Wisconsinites. We can make our health care heroes’ jobs easier and improve lives -- it’s time to bring home to Wisconsin what Wisconsinites have earned.
Sincerely,
JON ERPENBACH State Senator 27th District
Governor Holiday Christmas Decorations
Gov. Evers and First Lady Kathy Evers have completed the decorations on the Executive Residence honoring heroes and celebrating hope. The outside of the residence has been decorated for Wisconsinites to drive or walk by and enjoy the season safely.
Wisconsin health care workers began receiving Pfizer vaccine at the start of the week. UW Health frontline workers and SSM Health St. Mary’s workers were among the first healthcare workers in the state that will be vaccinated in the coming weeks. Nursing home residents and staff will be vaccinated later this month through pharmacy chains such as Walgreens and CVS. Patience is key, but the vaccine is coming soon for the rest of Wisconsin. Until then, we must continue to practice social distancing and wear a mask whenever out in public.
The UW System President Tommy Thompson has set an incentive plan for students with nursing experience to assist hospitals and health care facilities to help administer vaccines, including the COVID-19 vaccine. This is an opportunity for nursing students and others with health care backgrounds to earn real-time experience while battling the pandemic. To learn more about the requirements and benefits of the incentive, click here.
Operation Hope
Traditionally, a tree in the Wisconsin Capitol Rotunda is decorated with ornament creations of students. This year, ornaments will be shipped to veteran’s homes, disability service providers, long-term care facilities, and hospitals to spread the celebration of hope and honor heroes. More than 50 locations statewide – including one in New Glarus– will receive ornaments.
Evers Authorizes Federal Government Pharmacy Distribution Program
Gov. Evers with the Wisconsin Department of Health Services has activated the Federal Government Pharmacy Distribution Program for administering the COVID-19 vaccines. This program will help vulnerable Wisconsinites get the vaccine safely and quickly through the Center for Disease Control and Prevention and national pharmacy chains (Walgreens and CVS) partnership. Pending Emergency Use Authorization from the US Food and Drug Administration, distribution of the Moderna vaccine is set to begin December 28, 2020.
This year has been tough on kids and their mental health. The stigma surrounding mental health makes it difficult to seek help, but the Wisconsin Department of Health Service’s Office of Children’s Mental Health has offered tips on how to end the stigma. Learn more here.
Resources -
During this difficult time it is worth reminding Wisconsinites that 211 exists to help when you don’t know where to turn. 211 is a resource managed by the United Way of Wisconsin. Call 2-1-1or visit their website.
Department of Corrections Helpline: The call center can be reached by members of the public Monday through Friday from 7:45am–4:30pm at (608) 240-5700.
Looking for additional resources? If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to my office at Sen.Erpenbach@Legis.WI.Gov, or call (608) 266-6670.
