Question of the Week
What do you think are the pros and cons of having data centers in Wisconsin? Click here to answer!
Joint Committee on Information Policy and Technology
Today, the Joint Committee on Information Policy and Technology convened for its first informational hearing in over a decade — a major step forward in strengthening Wisconsin’s digital future.
Committee members heard important updates and discussions on High-Risk IT Projects, MyWisconsinID, and the Master Lease Program.
A big thank you to the Department of Administration for joining us and providing valuable insight. I’m honored to serve as Co-Chair alongside Senator Julian Bradley, and I look forward to continuing these critical conversations to ensure the security and efficiency of our state’s technology systems.
Senate Bill 211
This week, I testified before the Senate Committee on Government Operations, Labor, and Economic Development on Senate Bill 211, which exempts tobacco bars from the public smoking ban. I co-authored this bill with Senator Cory Tomczyk and Representative Sylvia Ortiz-Velez, and I’m proud to share that it has already passed the Assembly with bipartisan support — 57 ayes and 37 noes.
We also had a strong showing of support at the hearing. Many individuals — including business owners, veterans, and community members — came to testify in favor of the bill. Their voices underscored the role cigar lounges play not only as local businesses, but as community hubs where people gather, connect, and unwind.
This pro-business, common-sense legislation creates a clear path for more cigar lounges to open across Wisconsin with local approval. It protects public health while respecting business autonomy and individual choice. Cigar lounges are purpose-built, adult-only spaces with specialized ventilation and safety standards — not public areas where individuals may be involuntarily exposed.
Beyond supporting entrepreneurship and economic growth, this bill acknowledges the importance of social connection and stress relief. In a time when mental health and community support matter more than ever, these spaces offer adults a place to relax, build relationships, and enjoy a welcoming environment.
With this legislation, Wisconsin can responsibly support small businesses, strengthen community gathering spaces, and champion personal freedom — all within a thoughtful, regulated framework.
Here are the individuals who came to testify in support of the bill:
 Delorean Walls and Elton Gofoe (Owner of Grandiose Echelon) |
 Mark Buhler (Navy Veteran) |
 Chad Karl (Financial Planner) |
 Ethan Sanchez (AFP) |
 David Mack (Alderman) |
 Randy Bush (Owner of LakeAir, America’s Cigar Air Purifier) |
High School Sports Achievements
We have some big congratulations in order for St. Mary Catholic Schools !
Congratulations to the St. Mary Catholic Schools Girls Tennis Team on an incredible season! Your hard work, determination, and teamwork led to a strong finish at the State Tournament — you’ve made your school and community proud!
Another huge congratulations to the St. Mary Catholic Schools Girls Volleyball Team on being crowned Regional Champions! Best of luck throughout the rest of the playoffs — keep it rolling!
What an amazing week for the Winneconne Community School District!
The Winneconne Wolves Football Team dominated in Level 1 of the playoffs with an incredible 71–0 victory over Milwaukee North! They now advance to Level 2 and will face #4 Altoona this Friday at 7 PM. Let’s go Wolves—bring home another win!
The Winneconne Wolves Volleyball Team are Regional Champions! Congratulations on this incredible achievement — and best of luck as you continue your playoff run! Go Wolves!
The Winneconne Wolves Cross Country Team also had an outstanding showing at Sectionals!
• Grant and Quinn brought home individual championships
• The Girls Team finished second overall, earning their spot at State!
Grant and the Girls Team will compete at the State Meet at The Ridges Golf Course in Wisconsin Rapids this Saturday — Grant runs at 12:35 PM and the Girls race at 2:25 PM. Best of luck to all our runners!
Cybersecurity Month
Cybersecurity Tip:
Keeping your devices up to date helps protect against security threats. Stay secure by:
• Installing updates as soon as they become available.
• Turning on automatic updates when possible.
• Ensuring all apps and operating systems have the latest security patches.
Happy Halloween!
Wishing all the trick-or-treaters a fun and safe night!
Blue Books
 |
If you would like a Blue Book, please email my office, and we will send one to you! |
Capitol Visits
 |
Planning a trip to Madison? Schedule a visit with me at the Capitol! Email my office! |
Follow me on Social Media!
Stay connected by following me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for the latest updates from the Capitol and around the district. You can also visit my legislative website at https://legis.wisconsin.gov/
