WI Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony
his year marked the 34th Annual Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony–a solemn event to honor Wisconsin law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty. The Law Enforcement Memorial, located on the Capitol grounds, is a physical reminder of all the men and women who gave their lives while protecting and serving others. 293 names are etched in the memorial. The memorial and annual ceremony are a way of ensuring that the officers and their families are not forgotten.
Back in 2017 I had the honor of authoring a bill that created a funding mechanism for the Law Enforcement Memorial. This funding has been key to the maintenance and upkeep of this permanent tribute to our fallen heroes. Having the chance to play a small part in supporting the Law Enforcement Memorial and the work this organization does to help the families of fallen officers has truly been a highlight in my career. I’m so grateful for the men and women who put their lives on the line each and every day in order to protect our communities–they are our heroes.
Local Funding
Last week I shared with you that one of the biggest legislative accomplishments this session was updating our state’s shared revenue formula–which is the program the state uses to fund local communities. Prior to this session, our state’s outdated formula wasn’t sustainable or predictable for our communities. I enjoyed co-authoring this bill, which was the product of extensive research, discussions and negotiations. Ultimately, this historic investment in our local communities will help fund vital services such as law enforcement, fire protection, emergency services, public works and transportation.
This week I’m highlighting the cities of Oconto and Oconto Falls–both received a 20% increase in funding. This new level of funding is now the new “baseline” of sorts for each community. In addition, future aid will grow because the new funding formula is tied to the state’s sales tax revenue–meaning that as sales tax revenue grows, so will the aid that is returned to our local communities.
Request a Wisconsin Blue Book
You can now request a 2023-24 Wisconsin Blue Book! Blue Books are a fantastic resource to learn about Wisconsin’s government, geography, history, and so much more. And, they’re FREE! If you would like a Blue Book, email my office at Rep.Steffen@legis.
Follow Along on Facebook
Want to hear more about what’s going on in Madison and the district? Follow my Facebook page for weekly updates and to learn more about bills, events, and efforts I’m involved in. Find my Facebook page here: facebook.com/RepSteffen/.
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.
