April 2023
Senator Smith Decries Lack of Student Voices at Free Speech Hearing
Senator Smith reacted to the Wisconsin Assembly Committee on Colleges and Universities on April 20 in Eau Claire, which purported to be about student free speech but only included invited testimony and not student voices.
January 2023
Senate Dems Call for Spindell’s Dismissal from the WEC
Senator Smith joined his Democratic colleagues in the State Senate to call for the resignation or dismissal of Wisconsin Elections Commissioner Bob Spindell following comments Spindell made bragging about voter suppression targeting Black and Brown people in Milwaukee, then doubling down.
Senate Dems Introduce Referendum on Choice
Democrats in the Wisconsin State Senate introduced an amendment to place a referendum on the 2023 spring election ballot asking Wisconsinites whether they support repealing Wisconsin’s 1849 criminal abortion ban.
Insider Tactic Endangers Historic Land Purchase
Senator Jeff Smith (D–Brunswick) condemns obstructive maneuvers by Republican members of the Joint Finance Committee (JFC) to block the largest land conservation effort in state history by employing underhanded procedural gambits to avoid even discussing the issue.
November 2022
Sen. Smith Congratulates New Senators-Elect and New Leadership Members
MADISON – Senator Jeff Smith (D-Brunswick) congratulated Senator-elect Dianne Hesselbein and Senator-elect Mark Spreitzer for winning their senate elections and joining as new members of the Senate Democratic Caucus.
March 2022
Democrats Work to Make the Most Out of Republicans’ Missed Opportunities
MADISON – With the Republican-led State Senate adjourning for the 2021-22 legislative session, Sen. Jeff Smith (D-Brunswick) made one last attempt to pass Governor Evers’ surplus plan.
Sen. Smith Reacts to Wisconsin Supreme Court Redistricting Decision
MADISON – Sen. Jeff Smith (D-Brunswick) released the following statement in response to the Wisconsin State Supreme Court’s redistricting decision approving Governor Evers’ maps:
February 2022
Sen. Smith’s Statement on Gov. Evers’ 2022 State of the State Address
MADISON – Governor Tony Evers delivered the 2022 State of the State Address this evening. Senator Jeff Smith (D – Brunswick) released the following statement in response to the address:
GOP Calls it Quits on Rural Broadband
MADISON – During Tuesday’s floor session, Senate Republicans passed Senate Bill 365, which makes sweeping changes to the Wisconsin Broadband Expansion Grant Program. This bill prioritizes improving speeds throughout Wisconsin instead of focusing solely on rural broadband expansion.
January 2022
Sen. Smith, Rep. Emerson Resolution Passes State Legislature Celebrating UW-Eau Claire Championship Volleyball Team
MADISON – On January 25th, Senate Joint Resolution 98 authored by Sen. Jeff Smith (D-Brunswick) and Rep. Jodi Emerson (D-Eau Claire) passed the Wisconsin State Legislature honoring the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire Women’s Volleyball team...
Democrats Ready and Willing to Work for Wisconsinites
MADISON – The Wisconsin State Senate acted on nearly 80 bills during today’s floor period. Despite the lengthy floor calendar, it failed to include proposals that have support from a majority of Wisconsinites including BadgerCare expansion, marijuana legalization and improved broadband access.
Restoring a Fair Share for all Local Governments
MADISON - Today, as a part of the Legislative Democrats’ bill package to address public safety, Rep. Goyke (D-Milwaukee) and Sen. Smith (D-Brunswick) introduced legislation to increase State Shared Revenue payments to local governments by 2% each year.
Record Low Unemployment Rate Shows Evers’ Policies are Paying Off
MADISON – On January 20th the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released preliminary data showing the state’s unemployment rate declined to a record low of 2.8 percent in December 2021. This is the lowest unemployment rate in Wisconsin state history.
12 Years Later, the Destructive Effects of Citizens United are Unmistakable
MADISON – Today, state legislators and authors of Senate Joint Resolution 61, which asks Wisconsinites if Congress should overturn Citizens United v. F.E.C., reacted to the 12th anniversary of the landmark U.S. Supreme Court ruling.
December 2021
Sen. Smith Commends Governor Evers for WI Farm Support Program
MADISON – On December 20, Governor Tony Evers announced the grant recipients of the 2021 Wisconsin Farm Support Program. More than 20,000 Wisconsin farmers received a total of $50 million in direct aid payments during the latest round of the grant program.
Sen. Smith Thanks Governor Evers for Rural School Investments
MADISON – Sen. Jeff Smith (D–Brunswick) highlighted the critical investments Governor Tony Evers delivered for Wisconsin schools. A recent report by the nonpartisan Legislative Fiscal Bureau showed a total of $3.6 million to be directed to school districts within the 31st Senate District.
November 2021
Rep. Shankland, Sen. Smith Introduce “Healthy Herd, Healthy Hunt” Legislation
MADISON, Wis. – Today, Rep. Katrina Shankland (D-Stevens Point) and Sen. Jeff Smith (D-Brunswick) introduced the “Healthy Herd, Healthy Hunt” legislative package to help reduce and prevent the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) in Wisconsin.
Legislative Democrats Release “Forward on Climate” Package of Bills
MADISON – Today, Legislative Democrats and Lieutenant Governor Mandela Barnes held a press conference announcing the 2021 Forward on Climate bill package.
Sen. Smith Encourages Farmers to Apply for Wisconsin Farm Support Program
MADISON – On November 8, Governor Evers’ Administration opened the application period for farmers to apply for the new round of Farm Support Program direct aid payments to Wisconsin farmers. In this new round of funding, $50 million will be available...
Sen. Smith Condemns Republicans’ Passage of Gerrymandered Maps
MADISON – Today Republicans’ legislative and congressional redistricting plans, Senate Bills 621 and 622, were passed on a party-line vote. Sen. Jeff Smith (D – Brunswick) voted “no” on Senate Bills 621 and 622.
Republicans Rubber-Stamp Their Gerrymandered Maps
Madison – Today, Republicans on the Senate Committee on Government Operations, Legal Review and Consumer Protection voted to advance their proposed redistricting maps with a partisan 4-2 vote.
Sen. Smith Responds to GOP’s Ongoing Accusations of Voter Fraud during 2020 Election
MADISON – Sen. Jeff Smith (D – Brunswick), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Elections, Election Reform and Ethics, released the following statement in response to the recent voter fraud allegations made by the Racine County Sheriff and calls by Republican lawmakers...
October 2021
Republicans Leaders Openly Admit to Gerrymandering in the Basement of the Capitol, Out-of-Sight from the Public
MADISON - Today Senate Bill 621 and Senate Bill 622 (SB 621/SB622) were heard in a joint public hearing held by the Senate Committee on Government Operations, Legal Review and Consumer Protection and the Assembly Committee on State Affairs.
Legislation Co-Authored by Sen. Smith Pass with Bipartisan Backing
Bills Aim to Curb Catalytic Converter Theft and Improve Traffic Safety
Western Wisconsin Poised for Major Broadband Expansion Projects
MADISON – On October 14, the Wisconsin Broadband Office released the recipients awarded Broadband Access Grants from the Public Service Commission (PSC). These grants totaling $100 million will connect nearly 30,000 locations in 40 counties and three tribal lands with new high-speed...
Legislators Introduce Bill Advocating for Student Borrowers
MADISON – On Thursday, Representative Dianne Hesselbein (D-Middleton), Senator Jeff Smith (D-Brunswick), and Representative Dora Drake (D-Milwaukee) introduced legislation to establish the Office of Student Loan Ombudsman and create a Borrower Bill of Rights.
Rep. Hebl, Sen. Smith Circulate Constitutional Amendment to Give Wisconsin Citizens a Direct Voice
(MADISON) – Today Representative Gary Hebl (D- Sun Prairie) and Sen. Jeff Smith (D-Brunswick) circulated LRB-4951, a constitutional amendment that will give more power to the citizens of Wisconsin by enabling them to veto legislatively-passed laws at the ballot box.
Sen. Smith, Sen. Wirch Comment on the GOP Press Stunt with Ted Nugent
MADISON – Today Senator Jeff Smith (D-Brunswick) and Senator Bob Wirch (D-Somers), members of the Senate Committee on Sporting Heritage, Small Business and Rural Issues, responded to a press conference involving Ted Nugent and the Republicans’ odd package of bills affecting hunting...
September 2021
Sen. Smith’s Efforts to Stop GOP from Doubling Down on Gerrymandering
MADISON – Sen. Jeff Smith (D - Brunswick) introduced an amendment to Senate Joint Resolution 63 to force the Legislature to pass nonpartisan redistricting reform in Wisconsin.
August 2021
Sen. Smith Commends Rep. Kind for his Service to Wisconsin’s 3rd Congressional District
MADISON – Sen. Jeff Smith (D - Brunswick) released the following statement in response to Rep. Ron Kind's decision to not seek re-election in 2022:
Democratic Lawmakers Call for Public Hearing on Nonpartisan Redistricting Reform Bill
MADISON – Today, Democratic members of the Senate Committee on Government Operations and the Assembly Committee on State Affairs sent a letter to the committee chairs, Sen. Duey Stroebel (R – Saukville) and Rep. Swearingen (R – Rhinelander), requesting a public hearing...
Sen. Smith Introduces Bill to Limit Corporate Election Spending
MADISON – Today, Sen. Jeff Smith (D – Brunswick) introduced the “Ready to Amend Act” to limit corporate spending in local, state and federal elections.
July 2021
Sen. Smith’s Statement on Governor Evers’ Veto Action
MADISON – Today, Governor Tony Evers signed the 2021-23 state budget into law while using his partial veto authority to make significant improvements for Wisconsin’s children, families and seniors.
Sen. Smith Encourages Community Stakeholders to Apply for Broadband Expansion Grants
MADISON – With less than a month before the application period ends, Sen. Jeff Smith (D – Brunswick) is reminding communities to apply for the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Broadband Access Grants.
June 2021
Senate Passes 2021-23 Budget – But We Can Do Better
MADISON –Sen. Jeff Smith (D – Brunswick) voted in favor of the 2021-23 biennial budget today and released the following statement in response:
GOP Kicks Off Map Manipulation Mayhem
MADISON – Today, Senate Republicans passed legislation that would delay the redistricting process in Wisconsin. Sen. Jeff Smith (D – Brunswick) released the following statement in response:
Bills Co-Authored by Sen. Smith Pass Senate Unanimously
MADISON – Today, the State Senate unanimously passed Senate Bills 303 and 352 – bipartisan legislation co-authored by Sen. Jeff Smith (D – Brunswick).
Republicans Turn Year of Broadband into Years of Borrowing
MADISON – Despite historic amounts of revenue available to Wisconsin, Republican Joint Finance Committee (JFC) members scaled back Governor Tony Evers’ proposed investments for broadband expansion.
GOP Begins Manipulating Redistricting Process Despite Public Call for Fair Maps
MADISON – Today, Sen. Jeff Smith (D – Brunswick) voted against legislation that would delay the redistricting process in Wisconsin. Sen. Smith released the following statement in response:
Sen. Smith Renews Commitment to UW-EC Science Hall Project after JFC Action on Capital Budget
MADISON - On the same day the Legislative Fiscal Bureau announced Wisconsin is expected to have $4.4 billion in unexpected revenue growth, Republican members on the Joint Committee on Finance cut $800 million from Governor Tony Evers’ capital budget proposal.
Sen. Smith Votes to Preserve Wisconsin Election Safeguards
MADISON – Senate Republicans passed legislation today that would interfere in Wisconsin’s election process. Sen. Jeff Smith (D – Brunswick) and his Democratic colleagues voted against these measures.
Sen. Smith Congratulates Edmund Manydeeds on Being Elected UW Board of Regents President
MADISON – The UW Board of Regents today voted to elect Edmund Manydeeds of Eau Claire as UW Board of Regents President. Sen. Smith (D – Brunswick) shared the following statement in response:
May 2021
Sen. Smith, Legislative Democrats Introduce BadgerCare Economic Recovery Bill
MADISON – Today, Sen. Jeff Smith (D – Brunswick) introduced the BadgerCare Economic Recovery Bill alongside his legislative colleagues, Sen. Jon Erpenbach (D – Middleton), Rep. Daniel Riemer (D – Milwaukee) and Rep. Sara Rodriguez (D – Brookfield).
Sen. Smith Supports Governor Evers’ Call to Expand BadgerCare
MADISON – Today, Governor Tony Evers announced a special session to expand BadgerCare in Wisconsin. BadgerCare expansion would bring in $1 billion in cost savings from the American Rescue Plan Act, which could be reinvested in economic development projects across Wisconsin.
Sen. Smith Responds to GOP Proposal Eliminating Federal UI Support
MADISON – Sen. Jeff Smith (D – Brunswick) released the following statement in response to Republicans’ misguided proposal to prematurely end participation in federal unemployment insurance programs for Wisconsin’s unemployed workers.
Sen. Smith, Rep. Andraca Introduce Nonpartisan Redistricting Reform Legislation
MADISON – Today, Sen. Jeff Smith (D – Brunswick) and Rep. Deb Andraca (D –Whitefish Bay) introduced legislation to establish a nonpartisan redistricting process in Wisconsin, joining advocates statewide calling for fair electoral maps.
Sen. Smith Applauds Senate Passage of Bipartisan E-Cycling Legislation
MADISON – Today the Wisconsin State Senate unanimously passed bipartisan legislation, co-authored by Sen. Jeff Smith (D – Brunswick), to make improvements to the E-Cycle Wisconsin program.
Sen. Smith Condemns Passage of Republicans’ Voter Suppression Bills
MADISON – Today Senate Republicans joined a coordinated national effort to suppress voting and carry on the Big Lie by passing Senate Bills 203 and 212.
JFC Republicans Obstruct Wisconsin’s Road to Recovery
MADISON – Today the Republican-led Joint Committee on Finance (JFC) removed over 380 items from Governor Tony Evers’ budget, outright dismissing broad public support for popular budget initiatives.
Unemployment Assistance Bill Co-Authored by Sen. Smith gets Bipartisan Backing
MADISON – The Senate Committee on Labor and Regulatory Reform today passed bipartisan legislation co-authored by Sen. Jeff Smith (D –Brunswick), to support Wisconsin’s unemployed workers.
April 2021
Sen. Smith Announces Eau Claire Budget Listening Session
MADISON – Sen. Jeff Smith (D-Brunswick) will host an outdoor budget listening session to hear from constituents about Governor Tony Evers’ 2021-23 biennial state budget proposal.
Sen. Smith Celebrates Earth Day and Calls for Action
MADISON – Today Sen. Jeff Smith (D – Brunswick) joins all of Wisconsin in celebrating the 51st Anniversary of Earth Day.
Sen. Smith Calls on Republican Majority to Act on PFAS
MADISON – Today, Sen. Jeff Smith (D – Brunswick) joined bill author, Sen. Melissa Agard (D – Madison) and his legislative colleagues in introducing the Chemical Level Enforcement and Remediation (CLEAR) Act.
Sen. Smith: Statement on Derek Chauvin Trial Verdict
MADISON – Sen. Jeff Smith (D – Brunswick) released the following statement in response to the Derek Chauvin trial verdict:
GOP Legislators Ignore Experts to Carry On the ‘Big Lie’
MADISON – For the third straight day this week, Republican legislators continued perpetuating Donald Trump’s “big lie” about the November 2020 election.
Republicans Scurry to Play Politics with COVID Relief Funds
MADISON – Senate Republicans today passed legislation to meddle in Governor Tony Evers’ COVID-19 recovery plan, yet again.
GOP Legislators Pass Voter Suppression Bills
MADISON – Republican members of the Senate Committee on Elections, Election Process Reform and Ethics today passed legislation to limit voting and restrict access to the polls. These Republican-led policies are part of a coordinated national effort to suppress voting.
GOP Legislators Continue to Undermine Democracy with Anti-Voting Bills
MADISON – The Senate Committee on Elections, Election Process Reform and Ethics held a public hearing today on Republican-backed legislation to interfere in Wisconsin’s election process and sow further doubt about the integrity of our election processes.
March 2021
Republicans Cost Wisconsinites with their Latest Power Grab
MADISON – After months of inaction, Senate Republicans passed SB 183 which would undermine Governor Evers’ response to the COVID pandemic and delay financial assistance for local recovery efforts.
Sen. Jeff Smith Honors Wisconsin Farmers on National Ag Day
MADISON – President Joe Biden proclaimed March 23rd as National Ag Day to honor the valued contributions of farmers and members of the agricultural industry. Senator Jeff Smith (D – Brunswick) shared the following statement to recognize this important day:
Sen. Smith Statement: Republicans’ Missed Opportunity to Help Unemployed
MADISON – Today, the Wisconsin State Senate met without taking action on extending the one-week waiting period waiver.
Sen. Smith Joins the Governor’s Task Force on Climate Change
MADISON – Governor Tony Evers recently appointed Sen. Jeff Smith (D – Brunswick) to the Climate Change Task Force. Sen. Smith is now the Democratic Senator on the Task Force and is replacing retired State Senator Mark Miller (D – Monona).
February 2021
Sen. Smith Announces Bipartisan "Final Five" Voting Legislation
MADISON – As citizens across the nation grapple with a political system that seems more broken than ever, Sen. Jeff Smith (D – Brunswick) is proposing a breakthrough bipartisan solution.
Sen. Smith’s Statement on the Work Left Undone for UI System improvements
MADISON – Today the Wisconsin State Senate voted on Special Session Senate Bill 1 to begin improving Wisconsin’s outdated unemployment insurance system. This bill makes technical changes to the unemployment insurance (UI) system and suspends the one-week waiting period until March.
Wisconsin Needs a Plan that Puts the People First
MADISON – Today the Wisconsin State Senate passed Assembly Bill 2, which federalizes Wisconsin’s tax code for COVID-19 tax deductions. AB 2 provides tax relief for businesses that accepted pandemic assistance through the Paycheck Protection Program...
Sen. Smith’s Statement on Governor Evers’ 2021-23 Budget Address
MADISON – This evening, Governor Tony Evers (D) delivered his 2021-2023 Budget Address to the Wisconsin Legislature. Senator Jeff Smith (D – Brunswick) released the following statement in response:
Wisconsinites Still Waiting on COVID-19 Relief Thanks to Republicans
For the third time in less than a month, the Wisconsin State Senate voted on the hyper partisan COVID-19 response legislation. Senator Jeff Smith and his Democratic colleagues opposed Assembly Bill 1 today for the second time after Republicans rejected the compromise version of the bill...
Statement on Gov. Evers’ Critical Budget Investment in Wisconsin’s Agricultural Industry
MADISON – Governor Evers today previewed a portion of the 2021-23 budget including the initiatives directed toward supporting Wisconsin’s agricultural industry.
When Wisconsinites Want Answers, Republicans Give Excuses
Statement regarding the Majority Party’s Inaction during the 2021-22 Session ... Today marks one month since the beginning of the 2021-22 legislative session.
January 2021
Sen. Smith’s Statement regarding Legislative Action on Assembly Bill 1
MADISON – Today legislative Republicans dismantled Wisconsin’s COVID-19 response by scrapping COVID-19 response legislation.
Republicans Eliminate Wisconsin COVID-19 Protections
MADISON – Today Senate Republicans passed Senate Joint Resolution 3, overturning Wisconsin’s mask requirement, which was in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Senator Jeff Smith (D – Brunswick) released the following statement in response:
Sen. Jeff Smith’s Statement on Gov. Evers’ 2021 State of the State
MADISON – Governor Tony Evers delivered the 2021 State of the State Address this evening. Senator Jeff Smith (D – Brunswick) released the following statement in response to the address:
Sen. Smith’s Statement on COVID-19 Compromise Legislation Passage
MADISON – Today the Wisconsin State Senate passed Assembly Bill 1, a second COVID-19 government response bill. Senator Jeff Smith (D – Brunswick) released the following statement in response to today’s Senate floor period:
Sen. Jeff Smith Announces New Staff Hire in Legislative Office
MADISON – Senator Jeff Smith (D – Brunswick) announced a new staff member joining his State Capitol office to serve constituents of the 31st Senate District.
Sen. Jeff Smith Looks Forward to 2021-22 Session
MADISON – Today marks the beginning of Wisconsin’s 105th legislative session. Senator Jeff Smith (D – Brunswick) released the following statement looking forward to the 2021-22 session:
December 2020
Sen. Smith’s Statement on Committee Assignments
MADISON – Today, Senate Minority Leader, Janet Bewley (D – Mason), announced committee assignments for the 2021-22 legislative session. Senator Jeff Smith (D – Brunswick) will serve on the following committees beginning in January:
Overwhelming Broadband Expansion Demand Shows Urgent Need
MADISON – This week, the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) announced they received 124 applications, totaling $62 million in the second round of funding for the State Broadband Expansion Grant program.
Republicans' Proposal is a "Recipe for Disaster"
MADISON – After eight months of inaction, Wisconsin Assembly Republicans introduced a hodgepodge of proposals for responding to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Statement on Nestlé Investment to Expand Eau Claire Facility
MADISON – Nestlé recently announced a $50 million investment to expand its Eau Claire manufacturing facility, which is expected to add 70 new jobs.
November 2020
Sen. Jeff Smith Elected Democratic Caucus Chair
MADISON – Today, Senate Democrats elected Senator Jeff Smith (D – Brunswick) as the Democratic Caucus Chair.
Sen. Jeff Smith Statement Recognizing Veterans Day
MADISON – Senator Jeff Smith (D-Brunswick) issued the following statement recognizing the contributions and sacrifices our veterans have made for our state and nation in honor of Veterans Day, observed November 11th.
Sen. Smith Welcomes Questions from Wisconsin Residents for COVID-19 Interview with Public Health Experts
MADISON – Senator Jeff Smith (D-Brunswick) announced he will be hosting a virtual interview with public health experts on the COVID-19 pandemic.
October 2020
We Must Act Immediately on Pandemic School Stability Package
MADISON – Today, Senator Jeff Smith (D – Brunswick) renewed calls for the Legislature to pass the Pandemic School Stability Package in light of recent data released by the Department of Public Instruction (DPI).
Sen. Smith’s Statement on Broadband Connectors Pilot Program Cohort Selection
MADISON – Today Governor Tony Evers, in partnership with the Public Service Commission and Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation, announced the six communities that were selected for the new Broadband Connectors Pilot program cohort.
Sen. Smith Selected as Member of the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women Task Force
MADISON – Today, Attorney General Josh Kaul announced Senator Jeff Smith (D – Brunswick) as a member of Wisconsin’s Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) Task Force.
Statement on Introduction of Pandemic School Stability Package
MADISON – Today, Senator Jeff Smith (D – Brunswick), Senator Chris Larson (D – Milwaukee) and their Democratic Assembly colleagues, introduced the Pandemic School Stability Package.
September 2020
State Republicans show up to work for Washington but not Wisconsin
MADISON – Five weeks before the U.S. presidential election, Secretary of State Michael Pompeo traveled to the closed Wisconsin State Capitol to deliver a speech on China’s pursuit to influence U.S. policy.
Statement on Broadband Expansion Grant Investment
MADISON – Today, Governor Tony Evers announced more than $5 million from CARES Act funding to further expand broadband in Wisconsin.
Sen. Smith Congratulates Recipients of CDBG-PF Project Award
MADISON – Today, Governor Tony Evers and Department of Administration Secretary Joel Brennan announced more than $36 million in funding for 42 public infrastructure projects for communities across Wisconsin. Four award recipients are within the 31st Senate District.
Sen. Smith Congratulates Eau Claire as Recipient of Public Transit Grant
MADISON – Today, Governor Tony Evers, Wisconsin Department of Transportation Secretary-designee Craig Thompson and Wisconsin Department of Administration Secretary Joel Brennan announced $18 million in public transit grants for Wisconsin communities.
August 2020
Statement on Policing Reform Special Session
MADISON – Today, the Wisconsin Senate gaveled in for a special session on policing reform and immediately recessed, preventing any space for debate or action on the legislative proposals. No Republicans were present during today’s special session.
Sen. Smith Reacts to Evers’ Call for Special Session on Police Reform
MADISON – Today, Governor Tony Evers (D) called for a special session for the State Legislature to take up legislation aimed at reforming police practices and improving police accountability.
Sen. Smith’s Statement Regarding His Work on the Student Debt Task Force
MADISON – Today, the Governor’s Task Force on Student Debt submitted its policy recommendations in a final report to Governor Tony Evers to help solve the student debt crisis in Wisconsin.
Sen. Smith Encourages Farmers to Apply in Second Round of Farm Support Program
MADISON – Last week, the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) and the Department of Revenue (DOR) announced a second round of funding for the Wisconsin Farm Support Program.
July 2020
Sen. Smith's Statement on Overturning Executive Order #82 and Emergency Order #1
MADISON – Today, Republicans outlined plans to overturn Governor Tony Evers’ Executive Order #82 to declare a Public Health Emergency and Emergency Order #1 to require face masks in Wisconsin.
Sen. Smith Introduces Legislation to Help Republicans Solve Unemployment Crisis
MADISON – Today, Senator Jeff Smith (D – Brunswick) introduced legislation alongside his Democratic colleagues to streamline Wisconsin’s unemployment insurance system and help workers receive quicker payments during future mass-layoff events.
Statement on Creation of the Governor’s Task Force on Broadband Access
MADISON – Today, Governor Tony Evers announced the creation of the Broadband Access Task Force. The Governor’s Task Force on Broadband Access will include representation from telecommunication experts, professionals in the fields of education and healthcare, and state legislators.
Statement on Today’s Supreme Court Ruling
MADISON – Senator Jeff Smith (D – Brunswick) released the following statement regarding today’s Wisconsin Supreme Court decision limiting Governor Tony Evers’ partial veto authority.
Statement on the People's Maps Commission
MADISON – Today, Governor Tony Evers announced the official application and selection processes for The People’s Maps Commission, the nonpartisan redistricting commission to redraw Wisconsin’s electoral district maps.
June 2020
Statement on Two-Week Early Voting Limit Decision
MADISON – Yesterday evening, the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the decision to restrict early, in-person voting for Wisconsin elections. In response to this decision, Senator Jeff Smith shared the following statement:
Celebrate Our Farmers During June Dairy Month
MADISON – Today marks the beginning of June Dairy Month, a celebration of Wisconsin’s dairy farmers and their economic and cultural contributions to our state. Their perseverance and hard work has deservedly earned Wisconsin its title of America’s Dairyland.
May 2020
GOP Unemployment Blame Game Blows Up in Their Faces
MADISON – Today the Senate Committee on Labor and Regulatory Reform held an informational hearing in response to unemployment insurance challenges impacting Wisconsinites, perpetuated by the COVID-19 global pandemic, antiquated systems within the Department of Workforce Development and...
Sen. Smith’s Statement on The Wisconsin Farm Support Program and CARES Act Initiatives
MADISON – Today, Governor Tony Evers announced the Wisconsin Farm Support Program, a $50 million investment to provide direct financial support to Wisconsin farmers impacted by this global pandemic.
Sen. Smith’s Statement on Supreme Court Decision
MADISON – Senator Jeff Smith (D – Brunswick) shared the following statement regarding today’s Wisconsin Supreme Court decision on the Safer at Home order:
Statement on Governor's Student Debt Task Force
MADISON – This week, Governor Tony Evers announced that Senator Jeff Smith (D – Brunswick) will be a member of the Governor’s Task Force on Student Debt.
April 2020
The Work Does Not Stop Here
Sen. Smith’s Statement Regarding the Passage of the COVID-19 Response Bill
Repeal the One Week Waiting Period
MADISON – During this unprecedented public health emergency, Senator Jeff Smith (D-Brunswick) is urging the legislature to repeal the one week waiting period for unemployment insurance benefits.
March 2020
Sen. Smith to Host End-of-Session Listening Sessions
Senator Jeff Smith will host five listening sessions throughout the 31st Senate District. Members of the public are welcome to attend the full event or stop by for part of the listening sessions.
January 2020
Sen. Smith's Statement Regarding the Introduction of the "Better Broadband" Bill Package
MADISON – Today, Senator Smith (D-Brunswick) introduced six bills aimed at improving broadband expansion in Wisconsin.
Better Broadband Bills
Senator Smith (D-Brunswick) introduced six bills aimed at improving broadband expansion in Wisconsin.
Sen. Smith's Statement Regarding Gov. Evers' State of the State Address
MADISON – Senator Jeff Smith (D-Brunswick) issued the following statement regarding Governor Tony Evers’ State of the State Address:
Sen. Smith's Statement Regarding Republicans' Rejection of Critical Amendments
MADISON – During today’s Senate floor session, Republicans failed to carry out substantive changes to some of the most pressing issues facing Wisconsinites.
Legislators Request Public Hearing for Non-Partisan Redistricting Reform Legislation
MADISON – Senator Jeff Smith, a member of the Senate Committee on Government Operations, Technology and Consumer Protections, along with bill co-sponsors, sent a letter to Committee Chair Senator Duey Stroebel, requesting a public hearing on Senate Bill 288.
Presidential Candidates Must Pay Their Bills
MADISON – Today, Senator Jeff Smith (D – Brunswick) and Representative Amanda Stuck (D – Appleton) introduced The Recovery of Unsettled Municipal Payments Act.
Wisconsin Voters Deserve Fair Maps
MADISON – Today, Senator Smith (D – Brunswick) and Representative Diane Hesselbein (D – Middleton) introduced LRB-5162/LRB-3797, to establish a constitutional amendment for non-partisan redistricting reform.
November 2019
Sen. Smith's Statement Regarding Gov. Evers' Veto of AB 249
MADISON – Today, Governor Evers vetoed Assembly Bill 249. This legislation would have made it more difficult for elected officials to make honorary designations of state highways or bridges by imposing stricter standards on who can be recognized.
Weekly Democratic Radio Address: Preserving Wisconsin’s Hunting Heritage
MADISON, WI – Senator Jeff Smith (D – Brunswick) offered the Democratic weekly radio address on Chronic Wasting Disease.
Republicans Failed to Make Their Case for Preventing Gun Violence
MADISON – All Senate Republicans were absent from today’s special floor session, called by Governor Tony Evers to address the gun violence epidemic.
Vindictive Republicans Vote to Limit Governor's Powers...Again
MADISON – During today’s Senate floor period, Republicans approved Senate Joint Resolution 59 by a party-line vote. This proposed constitutional amendment would limit a Governor’s partial veto authority.
Sen. Smith's Statement Regarding Former DATCP Secretary Pfaff
MADISON – Today, Republicans, by a party-line vote, rejected the nomination of Brad Pfaff as Secretary of the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protections.
October 2019
Sen. Smith Introduces Legislation to Restore Chippewa Valley RTA
MADISON – Today, Senator Jeff Smith (D-Brunswick) introduced legislation to recreate the Chippewa Valley Regional Transit Authority (RTA).
Statement Regarding Gov. Evers' Special Session Announcement
MADISON – Today, Governor Evers announced a special session to address gun violence in Wisconsin.
Legislative Democrats Roll Out Fall Priorities
MADISON – Today, Legislative Democrats rolled out their fall priorities plan, Forward Together. As the legislature moves into the fall floor period, there are many issue areas Democrats will be focused on to improve the lives of everyday Wisconsinites.
September 2019
Legislation to Provide In-State Tuition for Members of Tribal Nation
State Representatives Nick Milroy (D-South Range) and Jeff Mursau (R-Crivitz), along with Senator Jeff Smith (D-Brunswick), are introducing legislation that would allow any tribal member in the nation to receive in-state tuition with the University of Wisconsin System.
Sen. Smith's Statement Regarding Introduction of ERPO Bill
MADISON – Today, Democratic legislators, Sen. Lena Taylor (D-Milwaukee) and Rep. Melissa Sargent (D-Madison) introduced LRB-4383. This bill would create a civil process for Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPO).
Sen. Smith Encourages Hunters to Test and Properly Dispose of Deer This Hunting Season
MADISON – Today, Democratic lawmakers introduced “Healthy Herd, Healthy Hunt,” a package of bills designed to address the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) in Wisconsin by encouraging hunters to test their deer and properly dispose of deer carcasses.
Statement Regarding JFC Action on Farmer Mental Health Funding
MADISON – This week, the Joint Finance Committee (JFC) approved $200,000 in funding over the next two years for farmer mental health assistance.
August 2019
Statement Regarding Western Wisconsin Broadband Funding Increase
MADISON, WI – Today, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approved more than $163 million in funding to improve broadband access in Wisconsin over the next ten years.
Sen. Smith Advocates for CWD Solutions at the National Conference of State Legislators
MADISON, WI – Senator Jeff Smith (D-Brunswick) joins a bi-partisan group of elected officials for the National Conference of State Legislators (NCSL) in Nashville, TN.
July 2019
Sen. Smith Statement Regarding Governor Evers' Budget Action
MADISON, WI – Today, Governor Tony Evers vetoed 78 items from the 2019-21 biennial state budget as he signed Assembly Bill 56 into law as Wisconsin Act 9. Senator Jeff Smith (D-Brunswick) released the following statement regarding the Governor’s actions:
June 2019
Sen. Smith Statement Regarding Budget Vote
MADISON, WI – Today, the Senate passed the 2019-21 biennial state budget (Assembly Bill 56). The budget bill passed 17-16, with two Republicans Senators voting with Democrats against the bill.
Senator Jeff Smith (D-Brunswick) released the following statement regarding his vote:
UWEC Science Building Project Advances in Budget Process
MADISON, WI – The Joint Committee on Finance voted on Tuesday, June 11th to approve Governor Tony Evers’ $109 million capital budget request for the new UW-Eau Claire Science and Health Sciences Hall. In response to this vote, Senator Jeff Smith (D-Brunswick) shared the following statement:
May 2019
Investing in Wisconsin's Future
MADISON, WI – Yesterday, Republican members scrapped Governor Evers’ $1.4 billion education plan during an executive session of the Joint Committee on Finance (JFC).
DHS Reports Establish Direct Impact of Medicaid Expansion on 31st Senate District
MADISON – The Department of Health Services (DHS) recently released individual reports summarizing the impact that Medicaid expansion would have for each of Wisconsin’s 72 counties.
Local Democratic Legislators Demand Action on UW-EC Phillips Science Hall
Today, Senator Jeff Smith (D-Brunswick), Representative Jodi Emerson (D-Eau Claire) and Representative Jill Billings (D-La Crosse) toured the UW-Eau Claire Phillips Science Hall and participated in a roundtable discussion with UW-EC students and faculty.
April 2019
Statement Regarding Bill Introduction to Expedite Conservation Congress Actions
MADISON – Today Senator Jeff Smith (D-Brunswick) and Representative Mark Spreitzer (D-Beloit) introduced a bill to expedite the rule-making process for Conservation Congress actions taken at the annual meetings during the month of April.
March 2019
Sen. Smith Rolls Back Harsh Penalties for Local Road Budgets
Today, Senator Jeff Smith (D-Brunswick) and Representative Joan Ballweg (R-Markesan) introduced bipartisan legislation (LRB 1106/1) to lower late penalties for local governments applying for road aids.
Statement Regarding Governor Evers’ Capital Budget Request for UW-Eau Claire’s Science Hall
Senator Jeff Smith (D-Brunswick) and Representative Jodi Emerson (D-Eau Claire) issued the following joint statement regarding Governor Tony Evers’ announcement to include $109 million for phase one of reconstructing UW-Eau Claire’s Science Hall.
February 2019
Statement Regarding the Middle Class Tax Cut
MADISON – Tonight the Wisconsin State Senate approved the Republican’s spending plan (Assembly Bill 4) Senator Smith (D-Brunswick) offered the following statement:
“Governor Tony Evers’ middle class tax cut...
Sen. Smith Introduces Voter Protection Act as His First Bill
The Voter Protection Act was first introduced by Senator Jeff Smith during his second term as a State Representative in 2009. After leaving the legislature in 2010, Smith returned as the 31st District State Senator and vowed to reintroduce the Voter Protection Act as his first bill.
January 2019
Statement Regarding Gov. Evers’ First State of the State Address
“Governor Evers’ message of unity is a far cry from the divide and conquer politics that have become too common in politics today. I’m hopeful the Governor’s invitation to work together will be heard by Republican leaders in the Legislature...
Senator Smith Announces New Staff, Social Media Sites and Website
“My staff is here to serve citizens of the 31st Senate District by answering questions about state government, helping constituents navigate all the different programs and services and, most of all, they are here to listen and help citizens play an important role in the governing process..."
Statement Regarding Senator Jeff Smith’s Swearing-in
“I feel humbled and honored to represent our Western Wisconsin values in the State Senate. There is much work to be done, but together, we can make our state a great place to live, work and raise a family..."