Transcript

Hi, folks. This is your State Senator Jeff Smith, checking in for the Chippewa Valley. 

The Trump Administration’s recent decision to cancel 12 billion (with a "B") dollars in federal grants for the Department of Health and Human Services is a serious threat to our state. These cuts are already having a direct impact on Wisconsin communities, especially our county health departments, which rely on these funds. 

For instance, 40 percent of the Eau Claire County Department of Human Services’ budget comes from the federal government, and now crucial infectious disease tracking, like avian flu and measles, as well as mental health and addiction services are in jeopardy.

The impact of these cuts cannot be understated. They threaten to undo years of progress in protecting the health of our citizens and providing essential services to those who need them most.

With all the other federal cuts to Wisconsin, we are ill-equipped to provide these critical services without that federal funding. We need to raise our voices to protect the health and well-being of our communities, and we must continue to stand strong in the face of these harmful cuts. 

Stay tuned as we learn more about the impacts this will have here at home. This is Senator Jeff Smith signing off.