Nuclear Package Signed into Law
The pair of bills authored by myself, Representative Sortwell, and Senator Bradley to bring next-generation nuclear energy to our state were officially signed into law earlier this month.
The nuclear siting study will work to ensure scalability by identifying potential locations for nuclear generation and bringing these new technologies to Wisconsin. In addition, the bill to convene a nuclear power summit will provide an information-sharing opportunity and allow Wisconsin to showcase its nuclear-related research and technology.
This is remarkable news for Wisconsin, and I thank the Governor for his collaboration and decision to move us forward on this issue. We have a growing energy need that cannot be ignored, and this sets the stage for nuclear development and investment. Given our status for manufacturing and engineering, Wisconsin is a terrific place for fusion technologies and small modular reactors to blossom.
Wisconsin anticipates a surge in energy demand in the coming years but has experienced stagnant production over the last two decades. Notably, the state’s single operating nuclear plant is responsible for two-thirds of our carbon-free electricity and 16.5% of our total power.
With our thriving plant at Point Beach, the announced recommissioning of the Kewaunee plant, and this legislative package, Wisconsin is positioned to lead this sector. Energy is an essential tool for our state to thrive, and this enactment secures a reliable and affordable future for Wisconsin to flourish.
Touring Bellin Oconto Hospital
Thank you to Bellin Health Oconto Hospital for inviting me and providing a tour of their exceptional facility. They celebrated 20 years of service this June, now sponsoring a team of 380 members who provide care for the area, resulting in a total of $91 million in economic impact.
I was immensely impressed by the staff and their technology to modernize rural healthcare to the best of their abilities. It’s wonderful to have such a state-of-the-art facility in the district available to help patients in many different ways.
It was also great to hear about the community initiatives they’ve championed for proactively tackling local health issues. The Kids Triathlon is a growing annual event promoting health and exercise amongst youth. The HER (Health Empowerment, Resilience) Program is a fitness, nutrition, and mental health program that they run with the high school for girls in the community.
Thank you again to Bellin Health Oconto for the invitation and tour, and for all you do in the area.
Beacons of the Community
This week, the state sent Wisconsin Task Force 1 to Texas to aid in the recovery and relief efforts from disastrous flooding in the region. Comprising this team are multiple fire departments from northeast Wisconsin, including the Green Bay Metro Fire Department.
In a testament to the service and fortitude of our state, these heroes are serving across the country in a time of need. Thank you for doing such terrific work in representing our state and helping those affected by the devastation.
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Contact Me
My office is always available to help with any state-related questions or concerns you may have. You can reach my office at (608) 237-9104, or email me at Rep.Steffen@legis.wisconsin.
