Over the last two weeks, communities across the state, particularly in Northeast Wisconsin, have experienced record rainfall, resulting in widespread flooding, power outages, and evacuations.
On April 15th, Governor Evers declared a state of emergency and called for state agencies and the WI National Guard to assist in relief efforts. If you or someone you know has experienced flood damage, report it by calling 211 or using this online form to connect with relief resources and ensure recovery efforts are coordinated efficiently.
I’ve heard from many constituents asking what federal resources are available, so I wanted to take the time today to shed some light on the process and timeline. For the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to get involved, Governor Evers must first submit a formal request for federal assistance, confirming that state resources are overwhelmed. Typically, this takes place after state agencies have completed preliminary damage assessments of affected areas, which are underway across the state.
Once the request is made, a joint damage assessment is then conducted, after which the President can declare that a major disaster or emergency exists, which activates an array of Federal programs to assist in the response and recovery efforts.
After an official request, I plan to continue to communicate the need for assistance to Trump Administration officials and encourage them to provide as much relief as possible. A more detailed explanation of the process can be found here.
My office has been in contact with the Evers Administration, which has indicated that they plan to submit a formal request for FEMA funds in the coming days. If you need immediate assistance, I strongly recommend contacting your local county emergency management office, which I have included phone numbers for in the “Constituent Resources” section.
Behind every damage report is a family, a neighbor, or a small business trying to rebuild. My thoughts are with all of those impacted, and I remain committed to doing everything I can to support a swift and full recovery.
Thanks again for starting your weekend with us. We hope you enjoy this week’s edition of The Wied Wire.
Click here to watch my latest interview with Real America’s Voice.
In the Wieds
Get it While It’s Hot!
I was proud to join my colleagues this week to support H.R. 8403, the Hot Rotisserie Chicken Act. This bill is simple and straightforward: it adds hot rotisserie chicken to the list of authorized foods eligible for purchase under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Currently, hot foods are not eligible for purchase with SNAP. Rotisserie chicken provides families with a nutritious, high-protein meal that just about everyone likes. I believe it is common sense to offer this rather than unhealthy, highly processed foods. In a time when we are focused on Making America Healthy Again, it makes sense to incentivize SNAP recipients to make healthier choices, and I believe this bill will do just that.
Work Your Way, Keep More Pay
In the Small Business Committee this week, we discussed the growing number of freelance workers in our country. This type of work ranges from ride-share drivers and delivery workers to graphic designers and website developers. Whether people are looking for more control over their work hours or to explore a new industry, freelance work is an attractive employment option for people across our country. The flexibility of freelance work benefits not only workers but also small businesses looking to expand without taking on a full-time employee, such as a graphic designer. We also discussed the positive impact the Working Families Tax Cuts have had on freelancers and other workers nationwide. Provisions like No Tax on Tips and No Tax on Overtime directly increase take-home pay for freelance workers, who often rely on this additional income. As a result, hardworking Americans are keeping more of their hard-earned money.
Click here to watch my opening remarks at Tuesday’s hearing.
District Update
Importance of Public Safety
[see featured photo above] I recently had the pleasure to visit the Fox Valley Technical College (FVTC) Public Safety Training Center in Appleton. During the visit, I had the opportunity to tour classrooms and the outdoor training areas to learn more about their programs and witness first-hand the incredible training and skills that are provided to students and public safety officials. The FVTC Public Safety Training Center is a national leader in preparing so many young men and women to become reliable and confident public safety leaders right here in Northeast Wisconsin. Thank you to the Dean of Public Safety John Sorenson, Assistant Dean Cory McCone, and Director of Community and Legislative Relations Becky Boulanger, for your time and for all of your great work!
Adult & Teen Challenge Northeastern Wisconsin
I also had the opportunity to visit the Adult & Teen Challenge of Northeastern Wisconsin located in Green Bay. I met with Executive Director Vaushawn Johnson, Program Director Ryan Shockley, and members of their incredible team to tour the facility and learn more about the program that provides faith-based, long-term recovery for members of our communities impacted by addiction. I want to thank Vaushawn and his entire team at Adult & Teen Challenge for hosting me and for showcasing your incredible work and service!
Constituent Services Spotlight
Providing the best constituent services for people of the Eighth Congressional District is a top priority for me, from the Social Security Administration (SSA) to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), my staff and I are here to help! To request assistance with a Federal Agency, you can contact my District Office at 920-301-4500 or submit a message through my website here.
Photo of the Week
We have received so many wonderful pictures since we launched the Photo of the Week section of the Wied Wire, and I would love to continue seeing more. This week’s photo is of two wild turkeys spotted in the woods in Waupaca County. If you would like to submit a picture to be featured in an upcoming Photo of the Week, please email it to twstaff@mail.house.gov with your name and location. We look forward to highlighting more of your photos that celebrate the places and moments that make Wisconsin special.
Constituent Resources
If you or someone you know in Northeast Wisconsin has been impacted by flooding, please find resources below:
- Outagamie County Multi-Agency Resource Center
- Call 2-1-1 to report damage and connect with available services
- American Red Cross: Call (800) RED-CROSS
Emergency Management Contact Numbers:
- Brown County: 920-391-7491
- Calumet County: 920-849-1473
- Door County: 920-746-7195
- Kewaunee County: 920-845-9701
- Marinette County: 715-732-7666
- Menominee County: 715-799-5074
- Oconto County: 920-834-6850
- Outagamie County: 920-832-4646
- Shawano County: 715-526-7908
- Waupaca County: 715-258-4464
- Winnebago County: 920-236-7463
If you need support, please utilize these resources. As always, please don’t hesitate to contact my office if we can assist you in any way.
