NEWS FROM THE CAPITOL AND AROUND WISCONSIN
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FISCAL BUREAU: GOP TAX CUTS SINCE 2011 SAVED TAXPAYERS OVER $13 BILLION
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The nonpartisan and highly-regarded Legislative Fiscal Bureau last week released a
memo to Assembly Speaker Robin Vos which outlined the total savings to Wisconsin's taxpayers since the GOP-controlled legislature began slashing taxes in 2011.
The number was $13.112 billion.
"The attached table shows that tax law changes since January, 2011, are estimated to have reduced cumulative taxes that would otherwise have been, and would be, owed by taxpayers by $13,122.73 million," the memo read.
$5.7 billion in property tax reductions were achieved since 2011, a number that Wisconsin Property Taxpayers, Inc. often touts as a major accomplishment. According to the Wisconsin Ethics Commission, WPT was registered on and communicated heavily on property tax reduction every year outlined in the memo.
$7.2 billion were cut in income and franchise taxes, along with $131 million in other general fund taxes.
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SPEAKER VOS 'DEMANDS' GOV. EVERS CHANGE DATE OF SPECIAL ELECTION
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In a hand-delivered letter sent to Governor Tony Evers by Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, the leader requested that the first term governor change the date of the special 7th Congressional District election. The election will fill the seat vacated earlier this month by former Congressman Sean Duffy.
"Because the general election was called for Monday, January 27, it would require a primary election on a Jewish holiday. You may not have realized that Monday, December 30 is the final day of Hanukkah," the Speaker wrote. "It's considered one of the most joyous Jewish holidays and the final day is the culmination of the eight-day celebration."
"Consider this letter a formal request to change the date," he continued. "It is unnecessary to require Wisconsinites to exercise their civic duty to vote on a day they have set aside for a religious purpose."
The speaker also wrote of the accommodations he has made in the Assembly chamber for religious holidays. But according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, the leader of one synagogue in Wausau says he has no gripes with holding an election on Hanukkah, but rather with Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald holding a legislative session day on the day Yom Kippur begins. "The one bothers me more," he told reporters.
Evers has not yet responded to the Speaker's request.
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BIPARTISAN BILL WOULD CREATE LIFETIME FISHING LICENSE
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State Senators Patrick Testin (R-Stevens Point) and Janis Ringhand (D-Evansville), along with State Representatives Ron Tusler (R-Harrison) and Don Vruwink (D-Milton) are circulating a bill in the legislature that would create a lifetime fishing license for Wisconsinites.
In a press release, Rep. Tusler said the bill "is an opportunity for people of all ages to get outdoors and develop a lifetime hobby. This lifetime license option is great for avid fishermen or as a gift for a young family member."
The legislation would set the price for a lifetime license at 30 times the annual license fee cost. Currently, the lifetime license would cost $577.50. Lifetime license holders would also still be required to purchase stamps for special fishing.
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GOP LAWMAKER WANTS LEGAL SPORTS BETTING IN WISCONSIN
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State Representative Tyler Vorpagel (R-Plymouth) would like to see the Wisconsin constitution changed to allow for legal sports betting. The lawmaker believes Wisconsin residents should have the right to bet on their favorite teams in the casino or on the internet from the comfort of their own homes.
Vorpagel told a Milwaukee TV station that he's always been a fan of sports, and "always been a fan of NCAA brackets and fantasy football."
Due to a U.S. Supreme Court decision, states are now granted the authority to allow legal sports betting, but Wisconsin's constitution expressly prohibits the practice. A joint resolution would need to pass the full legislature for two successive legislative sessions, or about four years, then would go to referendum to be approved by voters. About 30 years ago, a similar path to victory was sought and achieved for the Wisconsin Lottery.
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WEDC APPROVES $195,000 SALARY FOR EVERS APPOINTEE
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The incoming CEO of the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation will bring home just under $200,000 per year to lead the state's often-embroiled jobs and economic development agency after the departure of Gov. Scott Walker appointee Mark Hogan.
Melissa Hughes most recently served as Organic Valley's "chief mission officer" and also as general counsel since 2003. She was selected from among nearly 30 other candidates by Governor Tony Evers, and will now be at the help of a public-private state agency that doles out over $3 billion per year in tax credits, grants, and loans. Governor Evers recently said he would like to see the agency under Hughes focus on ramping up the state's support for start-ups.
Hughes will begin her position on October 1st.
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WEDC: ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR ENTREPRENEURSHIP SUPPORT PROGRAM
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The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) is now accepting applications from nonprofit and community-based organizations for a grant program designed to advance the statewide climate for entrepreneurship.
The Entrepreneurship Support Program provides financial assistance of between $10,000 and $100,000 for projects that promote entrepreneurship and provide Wisconsin entrepreneurs with key resources, including training, mentorship, and business development and financial services.
The program was launched in 2016, and has provided nearly $1.5 million in grants to 28 organizations statewide to help fund activities such as prototyping assistance, legal services, and outreach to underserved entrepreneurs. Applications are due October 25, and can be found at wedc.org/entrepreneurship-support.
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WEEKLY MEMBER POLL RESULTS
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Do you support a red flag law in Wisconsin?
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goverment overstepping , better ways for background checks, will cause more problems
I see this as being abused and it's another regulation on law abiding citizens.
Crazy people should have their guns taken from them. The end. If you want crazy people to have guns anyhow, then guess what. You are one of the crazies who shouldn't have guns.
Concerned about of the law.
The ability of the judiciary to abuse this bill is excessive. we need protections in place to keep your crazy family from petitioning their favorite judge.
As the Sheriff says in the article, the necessary laws already exist. If Demorats want more gun laws, first take away the guns from their supporters. That alone will stop most gun violence!
It's one way to get guns out of the hands of people with mental problems
Won't work.
After reading the article, it sounds like so many thing, there was a court order BUT! Our society has become so up side down about not labeling people, that what was once right, is now wrong. Good luck future generations, our society is so messed up, I really think we are going to be the reason for the end of the world, and not because of climate change!
I need to know more about "Due Process" for the "accused"
The GUN isn't the issue. It's the PERSON who picks it up that's the issue. SOLVE the PEOPLE issue, folks... That means jobs, pay, and security. It means K-12 Education that's accessible to more people. It means CHEAPER tuition. It means TEACHERS who actually TEACH, not just sit there and take up space and collect a paycheck for doing it.
We already had gun laws on the books that are suppose to control purchasing guns this law would only tke more rights away from our citizens
Criminals will always find a way to hurt others,taking guns away will only have them use other weapons.
Just inforce the laws on the book.
I will NEVER allow my 2nd Amendment rights to be infringed upon.
I'm not sure it will help
criminals do not buy legal they steal or buy on the street not from licensed dealers
Easily out of control
Plenty of laws already add some more to end up with the same results
Go figure!
won't change anything criminals will still get guns.
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Do you support a mandatory "assault rifle" government buyback program?
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i wont sell just put it away
For one thing, most of these politicians have no idea what an assault weapon is. You are trying to disarm the population. I think most people's hearts are in the right place, but this will not disarm criminals. Look at the violence in these democratic run, "gun free", cities like Chicago and Detroit. Utter Chaos in these cities.
We don't let people carry bazookas or surface to air missles. Why not?
Why have extra fire arms in a home, if people want to give up guns for an incentive, let them.
Next all guns would be confiscated.
no buyback for ANY firearms.
Ridiculous idea, except for supporters of Evers', who should not even be able to own a gun as they weren't able to protect their rights, losing them by voting for Evers!
Taking the right to bear arms seems to be impeded by such a move, but really, why do we even have to have them? Unfortunately, the criminals are going to get whatever they want, so the law abiding citizens should be able to have them as well. We need to start sentencing the those who are found guilty of murder, to be put to death by means that they took someone else's life and swiftly, no appeals.
Yes,
Direct infringement on our constitutional rights. Breaks the 2nd Amendment. You know, the founders of this nation have seen this. This occurred in Germany leading into world war 2... This is a very, very bad thing. Part of the right to bear arms is that we, as the People, should be able to check and balance our military. That's nowhere near the case. The buyback deal is just bad, bad, bad, for us, for the government, for everyone. Don't believe me? GO READ YOUR HISTORY.
Its to bad that discured people have cause this problem in society, but we only look at gun control yet many more people from auto accindents just being on cell phones
We first have to identify what is a assault rifle. Is a deer rifle with a pistel hand on it a assault rifle. Must define the meaning of the words "assault rifle" first.
Just try, just try.....
I think assault rifle's should be banned but until this comes from the federal government, I don't believe it will work in states and would be a waste of money.
guns don't kill people
Socialism at the finest
Law abiding people should not lose any firearms
what happens once the assult guns are gone, make a new type of gun to ban! where will it stop? It IS the criminal, Dummy!
They are MY guns
Nobody needs them, except our soldiers.
It won't change a thing1
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Do you support the legalization of medical marijuana in Wisconsin?
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If it works, why not.
Marijuana legalization is inevitable. Do it now and start taxing it.
I think marijuana makes people less motivated, but I support its use for those with medical needs.
Pot is a step to hard drugs.
for tax revenue. for peoples health. to not be the stupid red state in the midwest...
MJ HAS medicinal value. used judiciously it is equally effective as "PILLS".
I don't know that there is a better way to ease the pain and suffering, as modern medicine has failed. Better than Opioids??
It's probably less harmful than pain killers
This marijuana mess is becoming more of a problem all the time.
Patients need a safer med to control pain.
You know, I've heard the debates about this, especially with issues where non-users are acting as runners for the drugs... To me, making it legal doesn't help. It makes it a bigger problem. I've met folks who have used marijuana, and they are never the same after using, and usually in a bad way. I think that legalizing this would be a massive step backwards for the state, and for our people.
I feel it will get out of control and end up with more issures
This would only lead to full legalization and that would be a big mistake!
It should be regulated like any other medical drug. Years of testing and the whole bit.
Yes, but concerned about general legalization.
I have seen the results of medical marijuana and it helps tremendously - anyone who is against this has never had a loved one who needed and benefited from it!
just hope it is not abused
Opens the door to other things
It will open the door to legalized marijuana
If they follow thelaw.
I don’t think anybody, let alone government, other than myself, should choose what I put into my body.
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Do you support renaming the Peshtigo River State Forest after former Wisconsin Governor Tony Earl?
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I have no education on this matter.
Whatever. Did it need to be renamed? Can I get a river named after me?
What a waist of time and energy. Don't we have bigger things to worry about.
Decent governor. What? you wanna name it after Walker? lolol
Do not care.
I don't remember him as anymore than a very mediocre politician, Madison corruption and incompetence grew under him!
Too confusing
Why? I am so tired of vanity naming of this and that, just do your stinkin job
Governors are often given this honor. Earl's politics were not mine. But he occupied the office so why not?
Leave the name alone, why name it after a Governor?
why is it soimportant to name something after someone
Don't care.
I do not care.
He wasn't that great.
he was a bum
sick of memorials name everything after dead people that really promotes tourism
Earl was horrible!!!!!!!!
What did Anthony Earl do that was so grrreat?
leave things as they are.
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The Brewers are three games behind St. Louis for the NL Central pennant, and tied with the Washington Nationals for the NL Wild Card. Any thoughts on how they have been playing? Any predictions?The Packers beat the Broncos yesterday to improve to a 3-0 record on the season. They will play the Eagles (1-2) on Thursday. Any predictions and thoughts on their performances so far?
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don't care about baseball packers will lose
I think the Brewers are a lock for the playoffs and have a shot at getting the division too. I predict the Packers/Broncos game will be a high scoring affair with the Eagles winning like 34-27.
Go Brewers, Go Packers! We are cheering for you.
They are hot at the right time and will make the post-season.
go Pack!
Do not care.
Overpaid boys in tight costumes!! Expensive entertainment at best.
Go Brewers and Packers!!!
The addition of the younger players have been a real boost to the team. They look like they will make it to the wildcard game, if they can win that game, they have a chance. Pitching has improved as well. Packers look alot better than they did against the Bears, however, offense is still not impressive. Defense has been winning the games. If Rodger's ego doesn't get in the way, they may do quite well this season. It seems he has some issues with LaFleur. When Aaron first took over for Favre, I was a huge supporter of his, unfortunately I think his success has gone to his head.
Rodgers and the offense are not up to par. Were it not for the defense we would be in much worse shape.
So far so good for the Pack. It's nice to have a defense for a change. They should win Thursday night. I hope the Brewers can keep on winning too.
Good so far
The offense really needs to kick it in gear!
Tell you at the end of the season.
Mike McWho????
GOOD LUCK TO BOTH OF THEM.
Packers-Great Defense but need more offense Brewers-Unbelievably good!
The Brewers control there destiny, and so do the Packers. I wish them the best!
I believe the Brewers will make the wild card playoffs and so far the Packers are promising.
The crew should keep chasing the division title!
Brewers will lose in first round. Packers will be 11-5 and lose in first round of playoffs
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By clicking the link, you acknowledge that it is the policy of WPT, Inc. to publish all comments that are submitted by members each week, often including broad differences of opinion within the weekly responses. Our organization values our role in fostering dialogue within our membership, but does not take responsibility for the individual views and opinions expressed herein.
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BILLS SIGNED INTO LAW OR VETOED
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LRB-2453
Memo
911 Grants (Loudenbeck, Amy) Grants for Next Generation 911 and granting rule-making authority. Deadline: Tuesday, September 24, Noon
LRB-4191
Memo
Levy Limit Exception (Loudenbeck, Amy) An exception from local levy limits for certain amounts levied for charges assessed by a joint emergency medical services department. Deadline: Wednesday, September 25, Noon
LRB-4404
Memo
Clean Energy Task Force (Sargent, Melissa) Requiring the committees on assembly and senate organization to immediately appoint a joint task force on clean and renewable energy. Deadline: Friday, September 27, 5 pm
LRB-4429
Memo
Gabriella Deyi (Stubbs, Shelia) Congratulating Madison-native Gabriella Deyi on her crowning as Miss Wisconsin USA 2020. Deadline: Friday, September 27, 5 pm
LRB-3472
Memo
Urban Search Rescue (Rohrkaste, Mike) A statewide urban search and rescue task force and making an appropriation. Deadline: Friday, October 4, Noon
LRB-2868
Memo
Cell Phone Use (Spiros, John) The use of a wireless communication device while driving and providing a penalty. Deadline: Tuesday, October 8, 5 pm
LRB-4448
Memo
Funeral Director Apprenticeships (Kooyenga, Dale) Requirements for funeral director apprenticeships and licences, extending the time limit for emergency rule procedures, and providing an exemption from emergency rule procedures. Deadline: Friday, October 4
LRB-3710
Memo
Funeral Director Apprenticeships (VanderMeer, Nancy) Requirements for funeral director apprenticeships and licences, extending the time limit for emergency rule procedures, and providing an exemption from emergency rule procedures. Deadline: Friday, October 4
LRB-2006
Memo
Fishing Licenses (Tusler, Ron) A resident lifetime fishing license, a lifetime fishing trust fund, and granting rule-making authority. Deadline: Friday, October 4, 3:30pm
LRB-4241
Memo
Suicide Prevention Grants (James, Jesse) Grants related to preventing suicide by firearms and making an appropriation. Deadline: Wednesday, October 2, 5 pm
LRB-4178
Memo
ID Card Info (Stafsholt, Rob) Requiring that student identification cards include contact information for suicide prevention hotlines. Deadline: Wednesday, October 2, 5 pm
LRB-3872
Memo
Suicide Prevention Grants (VanderMeer, Nancy) Grants for suicide prevention programming and making an appropriation. Deadline: Wednesday, October 2, 5 pm
LRB-4287
Memo
Physician Continuing Ed (Kurtz, Tony) Requiring continuing education on suicide prevention for physicians, psychologists, social workers, marriage and family therapists, professional counselors, and substance abuse counselors and requiring the exercise of rule-making authority. Deadline: Wednesday, October 2, 5 pm
LRB-4373
Memo
Suicide Prevention Grants (Duchow, Cindi) Grants to support peer-to-peer suicide prevention programs in high schools, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. Deadline: Wednesday, October 2, 5 pm
LRB-3871
Memo
Suicide Prevention Program (Ballweg, Joan) Implementing a suicide prevention program and making an appropriation. Deadline: Wednesday, October 2, 5 pm
LRB-4361
Memo
WISH Grant (Schraa, Michael) Grants to the Wisconsin Safe and Healthy Schools Center and making an appropriation. Deadline: Wednesday, October 2, 5 pm
LRB-4247
Memo
Farmer Tuition Assistance (Oldenburg, Loren) Farmer tuition assistance grants and making an appropriation. Deadline: Wednesday, October 2, 5 pm
LRB-4167
Memo
Psychologist Licenses (Tittl, Paul) An interim psychologist license. Deadline: Wednesday, October 2, 5 pm
LRB-0414
Memo
Condo Disputes (Cowles, Rob) Creating a pre-filing notice requirement applicable to a dispute between a condominium association and a unit owner. Deadline: Thursday, October 3, 5 pm
LRB-4124
Memo
Physician Assistants (Kooyenga, Dale) Practicing as a physician assistant or nurse while performing duties for the armed services or federal health services. Deadline: Friday, October 4
LRB-0669
Memo
Pupil Restraint (Olsen, Luther) The seclusion and physical restraint of pupils. Deadline: Wednesday, October 9, 5 pm
LRB-2721
Memo
Bail Jumping (Crowley, David) Bail jumping and providing a penalty. Deadline: Friday, October 11, 5 pm
LRB-4378
Memo
Bart Starr Bridge (Gruszynski, Staush) Designating the Bart Starr Memorial Bridge. Deadline: Friday, October 4, 5 pm
LRB-2031
Memo
Teaching Hours (Loudenbeck, Amy) Recognizing teaching hours for providing certain extension services of the University of Wisconsin System. Deadline: Friday, October 4
LRB-0853
Memo
Hearing Testimony (Considine, Dave) Order to testimony at public hearings. Deadline: Tuesday, October 8, 5 pm
LRB-3732
Memo
Beekeeping Tax Exemption (Mursau, Jeff) Sales and use tax exemption for beekeeping equipment. Deadline: Thursday, October 10, 5 pm
LRB-3771
Memo
Pretrial Detention (Duchow, Cindi) Pretrial detention. Deadline: Thursday, October 3
LRB-3769
Memo
Release Before Conviction (Duchow, Cindi) Release of a person accused of a crime prior to conviction (first consideration). Deadline: Thursday, October 3
LRB-3770
Memo
Bail Modification (Duchow, Cindi) Modification of bail in a criminal action. Deadline: Thursday, October 3
LRB-3772
Memo
Pretrial Assessment (Duchow, Cindi) The use of pretrial risk assessment when setting conditions for pretrial release. Deadline: Thursday, October 3
LRB-3800
Memo
Respiratory Care (Testin, Patrick) Certificates to practice respiratory care. Deadline: Friday, October 4, 5 pm
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