Constitutional Amendment Hearing in Assembly
This week the constitutional amendment proposal that I authored, Assembly Joint Resolution 102, received a hearing the Assembly Committee on Judiciary. AJR 102 restores Merit, Fairness, and Equality to all Wisconsin governmental entities, including all state agencies, UW system, technical colleges, public schools, commissions, and more. This proposal prohibits these entities from discriminating against or granting preferential treatment to anyone based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin in public employment, education, contracting, or administration. This proposal is proven policy modeled after a 2006 Michigan constitutional amendment that was upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court. If passed by the legislature, this proposal would be on the 2026 fall ballot as a constitutional referendum. This important amendment embodies Wisconsin’s core values and affirms that everyone has a fair shot by ensuring Merit, Fairness, and Equality in our constitution.
Foster Parents Rights Bill Heard in Assembly
This week I testified at a hearing in the Assembly Committee on Children and Families on Assembly Bill 328 which allows a foster parent to receive a copy of their child’s permanency plan. A permanency plan is an assessment of the child and their needs focusing on the child’s best interests. Currently, state law does not explicit state that a foster parent can receive this plan, but this bill changes that to ensure foster parents are set up for success with the necessary information. As a former member of the Assembly Adoption Task Force, I’ve heard from countless foster parents about the importance of understanding a child’s past trauma in order to provide the care they need. I’m proud to author this bill that supports foster parents who dedicate their lives to supporting and nurturing children in need.
Veterans Song Event in Green Bay
[see featured photo above] A few weeks ago I attended a Operation Song event in Green Bay with several of my legislative colleagues. Operation Song is a non-profit that uses music to help our veterans heal the wounds of war. It was a great event, and a great cause. Joining me at the event were Senator Andre Jacque, Representative Dave Maxey, Representative Paul Tittl, Representative Jerry O’Connor, and Representative Ben Franklin.
Tuesday is Veterans Day in America. Please take a moment to honor all who served our great country in our armed forces.
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State Capitol Tours
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The best way to experience the beauty and grandeur of Wisconsin’s Capitol building (located at 2 East Main Street, Madison, WI 53702) is to see it for yourself. It is open to the public weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and weekends and holidays from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Free tours are offered daily, year round except on the following holidays: New Year’s Day, Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas. Tours start at the information desk Monday through Saturday at 9:00, 10:00, 11:00 a.m. and 1:00, 2:00, 3:00 p.m.; and Sundays at 1:00, 2:00, 3:00 p.m. A 4:00 p.m. tour is offered weekdays (Monday – Friday), excluding holidays, during Memorial Day through Labor Day. Plan on spending 45-55 minutes for a tour. The sixth floor museum and observation deck are open during the summer months. Groups of ten or more can make an on-line reservation for a tour of the State Capitol or call (608)266-0382.
