This week, I joined by Democratic colleagues in introducing the Unemployment Insurance Relief Package.
I am happy to be the lead on two bills in the package, to change the definition of "suitable work" and to expand DWD's authority to provide waivers for work search and job registration requirements.Additionally, I will also be a sponsor of legislation to remove the punitive ban on Unemployment benefits for Wisconsin workers who receive social security disability (SSDI).
These are commonsense proposals that would remove restrictions and barriers and help Wisconsinites access their benefits faster.
This week, Governor Evers announced the Task Force on Broadband Access. Ensuring access to broadband would help to close the digital divide, create new jobs and open up small communities to an abundance of new opportunities. With the current pandemic, it has become even more clear that we need to make this investment as students have switched to virtual classrooms, more workers are working from home, and much of our everyday lives are happening online. Without expanding broadband, we are leaving people and businesses at a disadvantage and hindering our communities ability to keep up and get ahead. I am glad the Governor is taking this step.
PSC Urges Utility Customers to Seek Assistance Before the End of COVID-19Disconnection Moratorium
The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) is urging electric, natural gas, and water utility customers with outstanding bills to make payment arrangements or apply for assistance before the COVID-19 moratorium on disconnections for nonpayment expires on July 25.
To avoid disconnection, customers who have fallen behind on payments are encouraged to first contact their utility to set up a payment plan.
If full payment or a payment plan cannot be agreed on, utilities will be allowed to send disconnection notices starting July 15. The PSC has required utilities to temporarily waive disconnections for customers who are infected or recovering from COVID-19. Generally, utility disconnections must be postponed when there's a medical emergency in the home. For more information about utility disconnections and collections, see the PSC's fact sheet on residential customer rights.
If customers cannot reach an agreement with their utility, they are urged to contact the PSC by calling 1-800-225-7729, or by filing a complaint on the PSC website.
If customers are having difficulty paying their energy bills or receive a disconnection notice, they may be eligible for assistance from the Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP). To determine eligibility or find out where to apply for assistance, go to http://homeenergyplus.wi.gov/ or call 1-866-HEATWIS.
Applications Open for DATCP Food Security and Wisconsin Products Grant
The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) is inviting food banks and other eligible nonprofit organizations to apply for the COVID-19 Food Security and Wisconsin Products Grant program now until 5:00 PM on July 29, 2020. This is the second grant available under the Food Security Initiative.
Register now to vote in the Aug. Primary Election and Request your absentee ballot
July 22 is the deadline to register online or by mail to vote in the August 11 Partisan Primary! Once registered, don't forget to request your absentee ballot! Visit MyVote.WI.Gov for more information.
If you are one of many renters with an early August move in date, don’t forget that due to a recent court ruling, there is a 28-day residency requirement for voter registration. If you do not meet that 28-day requirement at your new address, you are eligible to vote from your former address. Learn more about the ruling 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.