This week, I requested a Legislative Council Study Committee that would focus on school safety and the mental health of students. Legislative Council Study Committees thoroughly examine policy issues by having lawmakers and experts come together to discuss what is working and what needs improvement. I'm hopeful a study committee can really dig into what is working and what isn't with school safety and mental health care for students in Wisconsin. 

 
I am working on keeping guns out of the hands of dangerous criminals. Both the Senate and Assembly unanimously approved my bill that targets repeat offenders who shouldn't be carrying weapons in the first place, while still protecting the constitutional rights of law-abiding citizens. It creates minimum sentences for habitual criminals, punishes people who carry guns for criminals, and toughens Wisconsin's laws against illegal straw purchasing. My bill is now awaiting Governor Walker's signature.

Too often mental health issues in children are overlooked. In Wisconsin, I am trying to change that. In the state budget, we made it a priority to increase funding to improve and expand school mental health services and training for school employees to recognize signs of trauma in students. This session, I authored a bill that will help make sure kids can get mental health treatment when their parents or guardians can't be found. It was passed by the State Assembly unanimously. It's my hope we will take this bill up in the Senate this month and send it to Governor Walker for his signature.

My staff and I are researching our laws to see where we can make improvements to keep children and adults safe from gun crimes. This week, Governor Walker said he is also working on legislation. Additionally, Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald is exploring ways to make our schools safer. I look forward to working with the Governor and my fellow senators to find solutions.