Congress’s primary role is to uphold the Constitution, safeguard taxpayers’ dollars, and ensure the federal government is funded in a responsible, transparent way. Unfortunately, for far too long, instead of doing the hard work of budgeting on time, Congress has shirked that responsibility –relying on short-term continuing resolutions that bring about the constant threat of a government shutdown.
For the first time in 29 years, the House of Representatives returned to regular order by officially passing the final four of the 12 appropriations bills yesterday. From Agriculture and Energy to Interior and Commerce, each of these bills ensures that our government has the resources it needs to serve the American people effectively. Most importantly, following yesterday’s passage of the appropriations bills for Defense, Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, Health and Human Services, Labor, Education, and Homeland Security, I am proud to report that I secured an additional $11 million for Wisconsin’s 8th Congressional District.
These funds will be invested directly into projects that strengthen and support our communities, including $4 million for Green Bay Austin Straubel Airport to upgrade taxiways, $1 million for the construction of a new water tower in Suamico, $1 million to improve water treatment systems in Kaukauna, and $5 million for the Green Bay Metro Fire Department to build a new fire station.
As Wied Wire readers may remember, this funding builds on the more than $1.4 million I already secured for Northeast Wisconsin through other appropriations bills this year. Including: $425,000 for the Appleton Police Department and $1 million for the Oconto Infusion Center to expand the hospital’s infusion services, which are used for everything from cancer care to severe dehydration.
Together, these investments demonstrate my commitment to using taxpayer dollars responsibly to strengthen public safety, expand access to quality health care, and meet the needs of our communities. Taxpayer dollars should go toward projects that genuinely improve people’s lives, and investments in clean water, reliable infrastructure, and stronger emergency services are exactly the kind of work that delivers real value back to the hardworking families who fund it.
As I have said many times, my number one responsibility is to represent the interests of the people of Wisconsin’s 8th District. It is not a job I take lightly. I will always work to strengthen our communities and fight to ensure Northeast Wisconsin receives the funding it deserves. Now, it is up to the Senate to get these bills across the finish line.
Thanks again for starting off your weekend with us! We hope you enjoy this week’s edition of the Wied Wire.
Click here to watch my latest interview with Fox 11 News, where I discuss how my bipartisan BLOOD Centers Act can help address our nation’s blood shortage.
In the Wieds
They Don’t Call it the Frozen Tundra for Nothing
A dangerous blast of Arctic air is moving across the country this weekend, bringing some of the coldest temperatures we’ve seen in years – with wind chills that could plunge to 40-50 degrees below zero. Several parts of the state are under Extreme Cold Warnings, and social media is already buzzing about the frigid phenomenon of exploding trees. Needless to say, in conditions like these, frostbite and life-threatening conditions can occur in minutes. So, make sure to limit your time outdoors, bundle up in layers, and cover exposed skin to prevent frostbite. Schools and community events across the region are already announcing closures as temperatures continue to drop. If you need to travel, be sure to keep an emergency kit in your car, just in case. And at home, check that your heating system is working properly, protect your pipes, and keep an eye on vulnerable neighbors. Wisconsinites know how to handle the winter better than most, but these temperatures are no joke. Please stay warm and stay safe as the cold settles in. Click here for some helpful tips.
Getting Hemp Policy Out of the Weeds
Farmers don’t plant on a whim. They plan months ahead, buy seed early, and make decisions based on the rules Washington puts in place. So, when a sweeping change to the definition of legal hemp was tucked into last year’s government funding bill – without hearings or giving growers time to adjust – it threw a wrench straight into planting season. That’s not how we should be doing business, which is why I signed on as a cosponsor of Rep. Jim Baird’s (R-IN) Hemp Planting Predictability Act. This bill takes a responsible approach by giving farmers a two-year extension before the new restrictions take effect. That breathing room matters. Wisconsin producers made investments under the framework Congress created in the 2018 Farm Bill. They followed the law. They planned accordingly. And then Washington pulled the rug out from under them. Producers deserve better than that. Hemp, which has been used since the Stone Age, is a non-intoxicating, industrial crop that’s used for everything from rope and textiles to paper and biodegradable plastics. One acre of hemp can produce as much fiber as two to three acres of cotton. Not to mention it’s a growing industry in Wisconsin supporting processors, small businesses, and jobs. This bipartisan fix restores the predictability our growers need while working through the regulatory framework. I’ll keep fighting to make sure our farmers have stability, transparency, and a fair shot to succeed.
Anchoring a Strong Start at Kings Point
The ability to nominate students to attend a Service Academy is one of the greatest honors of my job. These young men and women represent the very best of Wisconsin – hard working, disciplined, and committed to serving something bigger than themselves. This week, I had the pleasure of calling Wrightstown Senior Ryan Leahy to inform him of his appointment to the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA). For those who may not know, USMMA is one of our nation’s most selective service academies, preparing future leaders for military service and for critical roles in maritime transportation, national security, and global commerce. Earning an appointment is no small feat, it reflects exceptional academic achievement, leadership, and character. Congratulations, Ryan, on this outstanding achievement! I wish you the very best as you begin your journey at Kings Point and continue your commitment to serving our country.
District Update
From Grand Opening to Grand Success
This past week, I stopped by Voyageurs Bakehouse located in Green Bay’s Broadway District to visit their new location that opened in August 2025. Last year, I joined U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner for a tour of the location prior to its grand opening, so it was great to see how incredible the final product turned out. I wish Ben, Celeste, and the entire team at Voyageurs the best for years to come!
Breakfast with the Champions of Care
I had the pleasure of attending Aspiro’s Annual Legislative Breakfast held at UW-Green Bay. The work that Aspiro and their fellow sponsor organizations of the event do for aging adults and individuals with disabilities cannot be overstated. We are fortunate to have such incredible, first-class support here in Wisconsin’s 8th Congressional District.
On the Ground with Wisconsin’s Builders
I recently had the opportunity to speak with members of the Wisconsin Builders Association at Lodge Kohler in Green Bay. It was great to provide an update on our work in Congress this past year and discuss how I can continue to support their industry moving forward.
Photo of the Week
[see featured photo above] 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 a deer who popped out of the bushes during a constituents’ recent bike ride. 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.
