Quick Links:
- Assembly Passes Voter ID Amendment
- Establishing Wisconsin’s Energy Horizon
- Free Fishing Weekend
- Follow Along on Facebook
- Contact Me
Assembly Passes Voter ID Amendment
In session this week, I voted with the majority to pass Assembly Joint Resolution 1, which proposes a Constitutional Amendment requiring voter identification in Wisconsin elections. Both chambers of the legislature passed this Joint Resolution in two consecutive sessions, sending it to a referendum in April.
Requiring a photo ID to vote consistently garners overwhelming support in Wisconsin polling, and it is eminently important to constitutionally protect our elections. Ensuring confidence in election results and protecting individuals’ sovereignty is a cornerstone of our democratic system.
Importantly, voter turnout in Wisconsin has not been negatively impacted by voter identification requirements. Turnout was higher in 2024 than in 2012, the last election before the law was enacted.
The proposed amendment does not change the existing law; it simply enshrines it in the Constitution. There are no new rules or regulations for voting, and exceptions such as provisional ballots and free identification materials will still be available.
This week’s passage was a necessary and crucial step in the constitutional amendment process. Because of the Joint Resolution’s prioritization early in the session, the question will officially be brought before voters in the April election.
As the date approaches, I will keep you updated with reminders and additional information. Today, however, I am proud that we have come one step closer to constitutionally protecting voter identification requirements.
Establishing Wisconsin’s Energy Horizon
I am thrilled to announce that this week I kicked off my efforts to lay the groundwork for Wisconsin to be a nationwide leader in the advancement of nuclear energy.
I am proud to be working on this initiative with State Senator Bradley. Together, we chair the energy-related committees in our respective chambers and have introduced a resolution declaring Wisconsin’s commitment to developing and investing in nuclear energy. Furthermore, as the legislative session continues, we will introduce proposals to enact a nuclear siting study and convene a nuclear summit in Wisconsin.
This resolution sends a clear signal that Wisconsin supports nuclear power and welcomes the development and investment in this clean energy source. Energy demands, driven in particular by AI data centers, are continuing to soar; Wisconsin needs nuclear to meet this challenge. Our state possesses the strong research and manufacturing sectors necessary to lead on this innovative technology, and I look forward to working further to advance this important initiative.
Currently, Wisconsin operates two nuclear reactors at Point Beach Nuclear Plant, which provide 650 well-paying jobs. Over one million homes in the state are powered by nuclear energy, which accounts for two-thirds of our carbon-free electricity production.
Nuclear energy has the potential to be a clean and reliable solution for our future. The technology surrounding it has evolved significantly over the past few decades, making it safer and more efficient than ever before.
The nuclear siting study we will soon introduce will work to ensure scalability by identifying potential locations for nuclear generation throughout the state. In addition, our proposal to convene a nuclear power summit will provide an information-sharing opportunity and allow Wisconsin to showcase its nuclear-related research and technology.
Free Fishing Weekend
This weekend, January 18-19, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is sponsoring their biannual Free Fishing Weekend!
I encourage everyone who enjoys fishing to take this opportunity to bring family and friends to participate in this great Wisconsin pastime, without needing a fishing license, trout stamp, or salmon stamp.
For those who are less experienced, this is a fantastic chance to learn a new skill while enjoying Wisconsin’s natural beauty and rich traditions before committing to an annual fishing license.
Stay safe on the ice and best of luck!
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 [email protected].
